Basic Numeracy Related Activities and difficulties with Managing Anxiety/Stress
Remember, disability is a highly individualised experience. People with the same disability may have very different capabilities and/or needs, so it is always best to discuss any adaptations to practice, the environment or equipment directly with the disabled person themselves rather than making assumptions about what adjustments may be suitable.
Anxiety and stress are fundamental human emotions. Some suggest that they are only noticeable when they occur in excess; however, many people adapt to very high levels of anxiety and stress.
Anxiety is normal and can be helpful in stressful situations. The burst of adrenaline and nerve impulses in response to stressful situations can help to prepare for fight or flight. However, anxiety is considered to be abnormal if it:
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is out of proportion to the stressful situation;
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persists when a stressful situation has gone, or the stress is minor;
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appears for no apparent reason when there is no stressful situation.
It is not uncommon for someone to be a little anxious about numeracy related learning activities, whether they have a disability or not. The teacher/trainer needs to be aware of those people in their group who might, for reasons relating to their impairment, such as mental health difficulties for example, become overly stressed. Some students, who have sequencing difficulties associated with dyslexia or dyspraxia, will experience problems learning their multiplication tables; they may also misread/confuse the symbols of +, -, x etc.
Repeated failure can lead to students feeling increasingly anxious and stressed which further exacerbates the problems; therefore, the teacher needs to ensure that they provide work pitched at the right level and which gives ample opportunities to achieve confidence-building success.
