Understanding & Overcoming a Fear of Math

Do you ever feel overwhelmed when it comes to mathematics? Do you get sick to your stomach when faced with equations and formulas? If so, then you’re not alone.

A mathematics phobia is an intense fear of math, which can cause panic when individuals face equations and formulas. Symptoms include increased heart rate, sweating, trembling or shaking, dizziness, and difficulty breathing. Those affected often avoid dealing with mathematics altogether.

Fear of math affects people from all backgrounds, from children to adults. It can have a profound impact on one’s schooling and career prospects, as well as mental health.

This article will discuss the causes of math anxiety and phobia and provide an informative guide to understanding and overcoming mathematics trauma.

Causes of math anxiety and phobia

There are many reasons people experience mathematics-related anxiety. Some of the most common causes include a fear of failure, feelings of inferiority, lack of confidence in solving mathematical problems, difficulty understanding concepts and instructions, boredom with the subject matter, and time pressure during tests and exams. Many related issues like, dyscalculia, can also be associated with a math phobia.

Additionally, students may have had negative experiences with math teachers or peers or struggle with a classroom setting. Some teachers may teach math only as an abstract concept. This can make it challenging for students to understand the real-world application of mathematics. Because some individuals fail to grasp complex operations, they may lose motivation and focus, leading to frustration and anxiety. 

Whatever is causing your math anxiety or phobia, it’s essential to recognize that you are not alone and there are ways to manage these feelings. You may even find others in your class suffer from similar problems, like fear of writing or long words. 

Math anxiety is a distressing phenomenon that can profoundly impact one’s life. Despite its prevalence, it is possible to overcome math anxiety with the right tools and resources.

Strategies for overcoming math trauma

One of the most influential and accessible ways to manage math-related anxiety is positive self-talk and reframing. Individuals struggling with a fear of math should start by trying to think about the situation in a more positive way. People experiencing math anxiety can use affirmations, such as “I can do this” or “I will complete this task today.”

For those still struggling to manage their math-related anxiety, it is essential to recognize that professional help may be necessary. Experienced counselors and therapists can assist in helping individuals work through the underlying causes of their mathematics trauma and develop effective strategies for managing the issue.

Additionally, online tools and resources can help those with math anxiety or phobia find the support they need.

Helpful online tools for those struggling with math anxiety or phobia

Strategies for Reducing Math Anxiety in Post-Secondary Students

A literature review by Laura Iossi, Florida International University, USA indentifed the following research backed strategies for reducing math phobias and anxiety.

• Instructors can help reduce students’ math anxiety by cautioning against stereotype threat and emphasizing effort over innate ability, as well as refining their verbal and nonverbal communication to allow for opportunities for small successes early in the course.

• Additionally, instructors should consider using factors such as working with a partner, working in cooperative learning groups, using manipulatives, and writing about mathematics in journals as part of their teaching style.

• Non-instructional strategies for reducing math anxiety include relaxation therapy, meditation, yoga, psychotherapy or seeking appropriate professional help.

• Systemic desensitization and anxiety management training have been found to have a significant effect on reducing math anxiety.

• Acceptance and commitment therapy has also been found to be favorably effective in reducing math anxiety.

• Students may require treatment for a math learning disability, such as dyscalculia, which affects about 5% of the school population. Adult dyscalculia and its relationship to a fear of math is uncharted territory.

One way to alleviate math anxiety is to develop and strengthen your mathematical skills. There are many online resources available that can assist in increasing math proficiency without breaking the bank.

For example, Khan Academy provides free interactive tutorials and practice problems for learners of all ages and skill levels. Here are some other helpful math resources:

• Wolfram Alpha
• Aplusmath.com
• BedtimeMath.org
• IXL Learning
• Matific
• Math Playground

If math phobia affects your quality of life, it may be a good idea to reach out for help. Many online resources can help with anxiety, including math-related anxiety.

• Talkspace
• BetterHelp
• Regain

These services can provide guidance and support in overcoming the fear of mathematics and helping individuals develop the necessary skills and strategies for mastering the subject.

Living with a fear of math

Living with mathematics anxiety can be challenging, but there are practical steps that you can take to manage it. Breaking down complex tasks into smaller steps and taking regular breaks while studying can help make the job more manageable.

Deep breathing is an effective relaxation technique that can help manage mathematics anxiety. Taking slow, deep breaths helps reduce stress and relax the body, allowing you to focus on the task. It also helps to increase the oxygen flow in the brain, which can help improve concentration and clear thinking.

Self-directed learning is one of the most effective ways to overcome the fear of mathematics. Self-directed learning involves taking control of the learning process by setting goals, creating milestones, and actively engaging with new material. Self-directed learning can help individuals better understand math and become more confident in their abilities.

Understanding & overcoming mathematics trauma

Understanding trauma is the first step in overcoming it. Many people sometimes overlook Mathematics trauma or do not take it seriously. People who suffer from this fear and anxiety may be labeled lazy or unmotivated when struggling with a real issue that can have real-world effects. Those who have experienced mathematics trauma may have feelings of inadequacy, fear, and even panic when faced with mathematical tasks.

Fortunately, strategies and tools are available for those who struggle with mathematics anxiety or phobia to help them overcome their fear and improve their math skills.

Professional counseling may be necessary for some people – if you’re wondering what to talk about with your counselor, we put together a quick guide here. If writing is not an issue, journaling your thoughts may also be helpful for some people. 

Online tools such as Khan Academy or Wolfram Alpha can assist in increasing math proficiency. Ultimately, understanding how mathematics trauma works will empower you to manage it better to reach your full academic and professional potential.

Overcoming Mathematics Trauma: Strategies for Improving Math Anxiety and Phobia with Online Resources and Professional Help

People can and have overcome mathematics trauma. Some people have used online resources to help them better understand the material and practice their skills.

Others may find that talking to a teacher or tutor about their anxieties helps them to feel more comfortable with math. Other strategies include changing study habits and the environment in which you do mathematics.

It is essential to recognize that mathematics anxiety or phobia can be a severe issue, and professional help may be necessary for individuals struggling with it.

Self-directed learning, positive self-talk, deep breathing techniques, and talking to teachers/tutors and mental health professionals about anxieties can also all be beneficial in overcoming the fear of mathematics. With dedication and hard work, anyone can overcome their math trauma.