For millions of students, just hearing the word math is enough to spark a rush of anxiety. Whether it’s solving equations at the board, tackling timed tests, or simply being called on in class, math anxiety remains one of the most persistent emotional barriers in education. Research suggests that nearly 1 in 4 students experience some form of math-related stress—and it doesn’t always fade with age.
What’s more surprising? The unease isn’t limited to students. According to a survey by the EdWeek Research Center, around 25% of educators also admit to feeling uncomfortable with the subject. That discomfort, experts warn, can silently seep into the classroom, reinforcing the cycle of anxiety in younger learners.
“There’s this long-standing myth that math ability is something you’re either born with or not,” says Dr. Viveka Vaughn, associate professor of mathematics education at Wayne State University, during an Education Week webinar. “But that just doesn’t hold up. Math is a skill—and like any skill, it improves with intentional practice.”
The ‘Math Gene’ Myth
A major driver of math anxiety is the belief in a “math gene”—that only certain people are naturally wired to be good at numbers. It’s a dangerous mindset that discourages persistence and growth.
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Children who struggle early on may internalize the idea that they’re simply “not math people.” Once that belief sets in, it can discourage effort and lead students to opt out of advanced math courses altogether, closing the door on STEM careers before they even begin.
“When students fail at a math problem, they often see it as proof that they’re not capable,” explains Dr. Vaughn. “But failure in math is not a dead end—it’s part of the learning journey.”
The Hidden Toll of Math Avoidance
Math anxiety doesn’t just impact performance—it shapes academic choices, too. Students suffering from it often shy away from enrolling in higher-level courses like algebra, calculus, or statistics. This limits college readiness and shrinks access to in-demand fields such as data science, engineering, and economics.
Meanwhile, teachers who are uncomfortable with math may unconsciously send subtle messages to their students, such as avoiding complex topics or relying heavily on memorization instead of conceptual understanding.
Rewiring the Way We Learn (and Teach) Math
Combatting math anxiety requires more than encouragement—it calls for a cultural shift in how we teach the subject. Experts advocate for:
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Growth mindset strategies: Praising effort over correct answers helps normalize struggle and promote resilience.
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Hands-on learning: Using manipulatives, games, and real-world examples can demystify math and make it feel relevant.
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Supportive assessment practices: Allowing time for reflection and revision can reduce the high-pressure environment often associated with math tests.
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Teacher training: Empowering educators with content knowledge and confidence can create safer, more productive learning spaces.
“The teacher’s mindset is key,” Dr. Vaughn emphasizes. “When educators model curiosity and perseverance in math, their students follow.”
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Fun Fact: Math Phobia Isn’t New
Math anxiety has existed for centuries. In fact, 19th-century author Charles Dickens once wrote of a character who trembled at the mere sight of a multiplication table! Modern neuroscience shows that the brain responds to math anxiety the same way it does to physical pain—making it a very real emotional experience.
Bottom line: Math anxiety isn’t just a student issue—it’s a systemic challenge that affects learners and educators alike. But with targeted support, a growth mindset, and inclusive teaching strategies, we can turn fear into confidence and unlock the mathematical potential in every student.
