The NUS Asked Its Student Delegates To Use Jazz Hands Instead Of Clapping To Avoid Triggering Anxiety

The National Union of Students was the subject of ridicule on Tuesday after telling its delegates to use jazz hands instead of clapping in order to avoid triggering anxiety.

A spokesperson for the NUS justified the decision saying: "The request was made by some delegates attending the conference. We strive to make NUS events accessible and enjoyable for all, so each request is considered."

However this didn't stop numerous people from poking fun at the union, with some wondering whether the Twitter account was a spoof.

Nona Buckley-Irvine, general secretary at the London School of Economics Students' Union, told Newsbeat: "Jazz hands are used throughout NUS in place of clapping as a way to show appreciation of someone's point without interrupting or causing disturbance, as it can create anxiety.

"I'm relatively new to this and it did feel odd at first, but once you've used jazz hands a couple of times it becomes a genuinely nice way to show solidarity with a point and it does add to creating a more inclusive atmosphere."

There are several types of anxiety disorders, which can be treated with cognitive therapy, medication or psychotherapy - or a combination of all three.

For more information about anxiety, visit the NHS' website.