Anxiety is a normal reaction to many different kinds of events and situations in life, but there is a difference between typical fears and clinical anxiety. Clinical anxiety, or anxiety disorder, is experienced as severe, persistent, exhausting and demoralizing. A mission trip, especially one of several months or longer, can include temporary anxiety from leaving home and family, traveling, navigating in a new place, experiencing a different culture, and missing comfort foods. Culture-shock is normal and can be overcome, but not so easily for the person who is already struggling with anxiety. It is important to let your sending church or ministry, field supervisor, and ministry partner know if you struggle with anxiety. We desire to see you launched in a healthy way to serve as a student missionary. We take a nurturing stance to all students and help them grow in areas that otherwise would hinder them from effectively serving.