Anxiety intervention in the school environment: an integrative review

Abstract

Anxiety among school-aged adolescents is a growing challenge that requires effective interventions tailored to specific educational and cultural contexts. This study aims to synthesize scientific evidence regarding interventions for and the management of anxiety in the school setting through an integrative literature review. Data were collected from the Virtual Health Library and Google Scholar using rigorous inclusion and exclusion criteria; selected studies were published within the last five years in Portuguese, English, or Spanish and addressed interventions applied to students aged 10 and older. Sixteen studies were selected following the application of eligibility criteria. The interventions identified included breathing exercises, mindfulness, yoga, psychoeducation based on Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, physical activity, and routine organization strategies. Combined approaches were found to be more effective in reducing anxiety levels. Despite positive results, challenges regarding implementation—such as structural limitations and the need for professional training—were noted. The study concludes that school-based interventions are relevant for promoting mental health, highlighting the need to expand public policies aimed at this population.