EXAM SEASON STARTS
In the last two weeks alone, three students in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have tragically taken their own lives. This shocking truth highlights the growing mental health crisis among students, especially during the high-pressure exam season. As the countdown to exams begins, it’s crucial for parents, teachers, and caregivers to be more vigilant than ever before.
In India, student suicides account for 7.6% of all suicides, a number that reflects a hidden and alarming crisis. According to data from the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), 13,044 student suicides were recorded in 2022, marking a 4% annual increase, which is twice the national average. The problem is not limited to a few regions; states like Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and Madhya Pradesh report some of the highest numbers of student suicides, contributing to the national toll.
The causes behind this heartbreaking trend are multifaceted—ranging from academic stress, forced career choices, and lack of support from educational institutions to issues like ragging, bullying, financial pressure, and emotional neglect. In a world where societal and family pressures continue to mount, many students are simply not equipped to cope, and in extreme cases, their despair leads them to take the ultimate step.
Dr. Rohit Pandurang Deshmukh, a Consultant Neuropsychiatrist, emphasizes that children have limited coping mechanisms and a restricted sense of control over their lives. Unlike adults, who may have the ability to manage their finances and personal responsibilities, children are often overwhelmed by the pressures placed on them.
Understanding the Student’s Struggle
When a student exhibits signs such as insomnia, loss of appetite, withdrawal from social interactions, or sudden changes in behavior—such as a once-talkative child becoming silent—these are red flags that should not be ignored. Parents and teachers are in the best position to notice these changes, and their awareness can be the first step in preventing a tragedy.Dr. Deshmukh advises that such children should be referred to mental health experts for proper assessment and treatment. Even if there is no clinical issue, an evaluation ensures that the child feels supported and understood. Early intervention can be life-saving.
The Role of Parents and Teachers
Both parents and teachers are uniquely positioned to spot signs of distress in children. Parents, who are familiar with their child’s usual behavior, can quickly notice when something is wrong. Teachers, observing the child’s behavior in class, may see changes that signal emotional distress. Dr. Deshmukh suggests that the burden of academic pressure should not be placed on children, particularly during high-stakes exams.
“It’s not about marks or ranks; it’s about mental well-being and nurturing the true potential of every student,” says Dr. Deshmukh. This is an important reminder for both parents and teachers: undue pressure in the form of unrealistic academic expectations does not help children perform better. Instead, it can lead to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts.
Students should be encouraged to compete with themselves, not with others. The goal should be to do the best they can for themselves, focusing on personal growth rather than meeting external expectations.
The Importance of Supporting Students During Exam Season
The exam season is particularly stressful for students, and the current trend of rising suicides points to a lack of emotional support during these times. Dr. Deshmukh highlights the need to create an environment where students feel understood and supported. Rather than emphasizing marks, the focus should be on helping students perform to the best of their abilities without the added stress of competing with others.
Parents and teachers should have open conversations with students, listen to their concerns, and reassure them that it’s okay not to be perfect. This open support can go a long way in helping children cope with exam stress and build resilience for the future.
A Holistic Approach to Education and Mental Health
While education is undoubtedly important, Dr. Deshmukh stresses that it is not the only key to success. “There is nothing like when you crack a certain exam, then only you will succeed in life. Many things can be achieved with or without education,” he says. Students should be encouraged to understand their own strengths, whether academic or creative. For example, a student with a passion for the arts may excel in that field, while someone more inclined toward science can thrive in that area.
The goal is to understand your level, perform to the best of your abilities, and move forward in a field that suits you. Success is not solely defined by exam results but by a person’s ability to recognize their potential and pursue a path that brings them fulfillment and purpose.
