A 2009 survey of students at Ontario post-secondary institutions found the three most common factors identified by students as affecting their academic performance were stress, sleep difficulties, and anxiety.

Three doctoral students of psychology are hoping weekly group meetings can help to address the needs of individuals struggling with anxiety.

Shawn Harrington, Lauren Wysman and Ula Khayyat, under the supervision of clinical psychologist Annette Dufresne, have organized the Stress and Anxiety Reduction Group as part of their doctoral clinical psychology practicum.

Group meetings each Monday, starting tonight, are open to students as well as the larger community. They are structured so that clients do not have to commit to attending every session, but they will benefit more from attending as many meetings as possible.

The meetings run 5 to 6:30 p.m. at 336 Sunset Avenue on February 3, 10, 24, and March 3, 10, 17, 24, 31. The organizers recommend reserving a spot by phoning 519-973-7012, although drop-ins are also welcome. For more information, e-mail stressanxietygroup@gmail.com.