Maths has been taught to students since the beginning of civilization. It's a subject with practical applications in everyday life, from counting your money when buying candies to calculating a shopkeeper's yield percentage for a sold product. At the same time, maths as a subject can be a source of anxiety and tension for many students. Maths isn't everyone's cup of tea and that's understandable. Maths phobia is the result of fear and hatred instilled upon the students by society and educational institutions, and it may have a negative impact on an individual's self-worth.

But as they say- "Where there is a problem, there exists a solution too." If teachers take charge of understanding their student's problems, tackle maths anxiety by encouraging them to approach a problem in a different way, the results could be overwhelming.

Phobia of Maths

Arithmophobia is a fear of maths or anxiety related to this subject. It's a combination of anxiety, stress, and fear that makes it difficult for a person to do effectively in this subject. A person with maths phobia does not always lack mathematical competence; rather, the terror of the topic tends to dominate the mind. Although it can affect people of different ages, it is most frequent in children. 

How to get rid of math fear?

The four weapons to conquer any fear or hurdle in this world are self-confidence, patience, hard work, and consistency. Apart from that, there are several recommendations that, if followed consistently, will help you overcome your fear. 

·    Try to apply maths to real-life situations.

·    Practice maths on a daily basis.

·    Acknowledge your problems and work to solve them.

·    Start meditating to develop a strong and positive mindset.

·    Ask questions.

·    Don't be afraid to seek help. 

Causes of Maths Phobia

Maths and its concepts like algebra arithmetic etc. are not less than a demon for many students. The main causes of mathematics phobia include parents and teachers, when parents are way too strict or high with anxiety, they unintentionally induce this feeling of stress and fear in their kids. Similarly, this applies to teachers too. Peer pressure, numerous examinations, and tests are all factors that might contribute to arithmophobia. 

Role of Vedic maths and abacus in improving a child's math skills

Abacus and Vedic maths are not only subjects but experiences. They help enhance visualization and imagination, not only this but they also help in making smarter choices and intelligent decisions, increase the speed of solving problems, reduce the burden of remembering formulas and difficult concepts. Abacus is often utilized in lower grades, although Vedic maths may be used for higher concepts as well. 

Role of mentor

There are a number of aspects that influence whether a subject is good or bad. One of these factors is also your mentor. Teaching is an art and a teacher who teaches is an artist. It becomes essential for them to grab the attention of young minds and make them listen to what’s going on. But, I would like to mention it’s not just the teacher’s responsibility, the student is equally responsible for developing either hatred or love for the subject.