Mental Health during exam -Ashish Kumar Pathak

Mental health during examination is a vital aspect of a student's overall well-being. Mental health is crucial during exam periods as students often face immense pressure to perform well, leading to totally uncalled for stress, anxiety and burn-out. These later on become baggage for life. In the Indian context, pressure to perform well in exams can be intense, especially in primary schools.At primary school levels students are unequally dependent on their guardian for money and advice. For higher school students preparing for competitive examinations, the pressure can be more intense. In our society performing well in exams has become a sign of brilliance, thus taking a toll on mental health. 

Students face anxiety, depression, stress, burnout and fear of failure. High expectations from self, parents, teachers and peers can create undue stress. The fear of not meeting expectations can lead to anxiety and self-doubt. Lack of sleep can exacerbate mental health issues leading to impaired focus and marked reduction in productivity. Students may turn to substance abuse, avoidance or other harmful behaviors to manage stress and depression. 

At primary school level children may start to feel pressure to perform well and fear of failure can cause distress. At this stage a lack of coping mechanisms can affect their self-perception and confidence. At this stage children find difficulty in expressing emotions, thus anxiety can manifest as headaches, stomachaches Or marked sleep disorders. 

At higher school levels, children and parents both think that stakes at this stage are high because Admissions determine scholarships and career prospects. The number of students competing for limited seats can be overwhelming, this personal life and family becomes secondary. Pressure to choose the right streams is the story of each Indian family and forced intervention by parents can have the opposite effect. 

Indian society often places high value on academic achievement. The sheer number of students competing for limited seats in top schools and colleges creates a high stress environment. 

Parental aspirations, fear of failure, Limited focus on mental health, Lack of resources, cultural stigma, high order fees, Academic burdens, comparison with peers and allowed high-handedness of coaching institutes creates troubled and unhealthy mental health. 

Mental health is important during exams because it improves focus and concentration, boosts self confidence, enhances resilience, supports overall well being, fosters overall being, fosters healthy coping mechanisms, promotes better time management, encourages self and family care, helps maintain relationship reduces anxiety and depressions and improves overall quality of life. 

Talking to friends, family, Teachers or Mental health professionals Can provide healthy and necessary support and guidance, Important of Sports should be inculcated in the minds. Parents and Teachers must monitor students regularly, differentially and effectively. 

To promote positive mental health parents and Teachers must encourage open conversation, foster a growth mindset, teach relaxation, promote physical activity and play at par with academics, emphasize effort and progress and learning from mistakes. Mistakes should be stepping stones for progress in future and they must seek professional help in some cases of deep trauma and distress of mind. Reminding them of their strength and potential and helping them set realistic goals . Celebrating small victories with them will be a milestone gesture. 

We must Remember that Mental health during Examination is a critical aspect of student well being. By acknowledging the challenges and taking proactive steps Students can maintain their mental health and Perform to best of their abilities. 

We must keep in mind that"performance in every exam is not close to possible. Failing is human and Improving and performing there after is Godly. 

Ashish Kumar Pathak

Assistant Teacher

Middle school Sarha

Dharhara

Munger