DIAGNOSIS AND MANAGEMENT OF STRESS AND ANXIETY IN SCHOOL CHILDRENDEFINITION OF STRESS AND ANXIETYStress can result from any event or thought that makes us feel frustrated, angry or nervous. We all experience stress and usually manage it well. Stress is a ubiquitous part of life and is a reaction to external stimuli that disturb our physical or mental balance. It is a system in our body that helps us face real danger and/or perform at our best. Any event or occurrence that induces stress is called a stressor. Stress and anxiety can manifest as physical changes such as increased heart rate, rapid breathing, stomach pain, headaches, muscle tension and constant feeling of tiredness, etc. Learning to recognize these signs of stress and anxiety can help us be less afraid of them. ANXIETY – HOW MUCH? Moderate levels of anxiety can be helpful because they increase our alertness to danger or signal that we need to take action. However, on the other hand, excessive anxiety is unproductive as it interferes with our ability to take action to solve a problem. This is not considered a normal reaction to a perceived stressor. In these situations, counseling or other services may be needed. ANXIETY IN CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS Anxiety is a typical developmental pattern in which children tend to worry about certain things at different ages. Preschool children are often worried about the dark or separation from their parents. After about 7 years of age, children begin to experience anxiety about friendships, talking in class, school grades, or disappointing their friends, family, or teachers. Teens worry about friends, their future and health. Big changes like a new school, a move, changes in family structure, upsetting things like the loss of a friend… middle of paper… life and we all thrive under a certain amount of stress . Deadlines, competitions, exams, comparisons and even our frustrations and pain add depth and enrichment to our lives. Our goal is not to eliminate stress but to learn to manage it and use it to help us. Feelings of stress and anxiety will inevitably develop in students. Teachers should be able to identify symptoms and sources of stress and anxiety in students. They should be aware of the various strategies that can be applied to minimize the harmful effects of stress and anxiety. Their focus should be on developing coping mechanisms in students so that they are able to channel stress and anxieties productively. Each teacher is responsible for finding the optimal level of stress for each student that will motivate but not overwhelm the individual for maximum benefit.