3 reasons people get anxious about reading- and how to help!

When I want to unwind I read, but for many people reading is anything but relaxing. It actually stresses them out. Even just thinking about reading can be overwhelming or cause anxiety. But why? Why does reading cause anxiety in so many people?

1.Losing your place on the page

Inefficient readers often lose their spot on the page. This can make reading not only stressful, but extremely time consuming and exhausting. When a person has to work hard to not lose their spot on the page, they often struggle with comprehending the text they are reading. Their brain is so focused on tracking that it doesn’t have the capacity to also comprehend at the same time. 

Possible solution: Use a reading tracker such as a ruler or piece of paper or reading strips (you can find them on Amazon) to help guide you as a read. These make it easier to not lose your spot and help you to focus on a few words at a time.

2.Struggles with vocabulary

People who don’t read often because it’s not enjoyable can get frustrated when they             come across words or vocabulary that they just don’t know. Unfortunately, the less they read the less exposure they will have to new vocabulary and then it just becomes a cycle of frustration. 

Possible solution: Audio books are a fantastic way to increase people’s exposure and use of new vocabulary and word choice! Check out your local library for audio books or find an audiobook company online. 

   3.Thinking about past failures

          If reading has been a struggle in the past, oftentimes these memories can be one of the biggest sources of anxiety. Maybe you are an adult who remembers being laughed at when you read something out loud in class. Or a child who is always the last one done with their assignments because it takes them so long to read. Sometimes just the thought of having to sit down and read something can cause a person’s anxiety to sky rocket and their brain to shut down, which only makes reading even harder.

Possible solution: At The Brain Breakthrough we help make reading easier for inefficient readers. We work with the body to create new neural pathways and calm the anxiety in the body down. Schedule a free consultation in person or online today!