Competitive exams have become a defining feature of the education system in many South Asian countries, as in the case I'm about to make in India. These exams have been viewed as gateways for better career opportunities and a more successful future. However, as I see it, and many would agree, it is a toxic environment that puts many students in a tough spot. It is a fight against each other, the education system, families, and most importantly, mental health. The intense focus on academic success often comes at a significant cost to a student's state of mind.

Society has made it so that it’s hard to have options. Usually, these exams are viewed as “ride or die.”. This mentality has been causing a lot of harm instead of creating a sense of healthy competition and a sense of accomplishment. It is a “high-stake” situation that creates a pressure cooker environment. 

The Pressure Cooker Environment in Question

From a very young age, students are pushed into a highly competitive environment. The society and family expectations to excel in exams like JEE, NEET, CET, etc, are immense. Families end up investing large amounts of time, money, and emotional energy into their children's education. Many parents often end up viewing their child's academic performance as a reflection of their own success and status. Because of this, students are often subjected to immense pressure from both family and society. This high pressure environment, to outperform peers can lead to psychological issues such as chronic stress, anxiety, and depression. There is a stigma attached to failure in these exams which is additional pressure on students. Those who do not meet these high expectations might end up feeling a sense of shame and inadequacy. This, in turn, leads to students having no room to explore their interests and other potential talents too.

[Reminder: You are worth more than the scores you get; reach out to a therapist for emotional support.]

The Psychological Toll It Takes

The psychological toll of preparing for these exams has been recorded and well documented through experiences over the years. Students often experience:

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The Role of Educational Institutions

Educational institutions play an important role when it comes to a student’s mental health. Many institutions prioritise academic achievements over their students’ well-being. They tend to neglect the importance of mental health and proper support. Unhealthy competition is often encouraged and leading institutions use their students for clout, completely ignoring their individuality. 

However, we have been seeing some changes in these institutions. A more balanced approach to studying and rest is being incorporated. Counseling services, stress management programs, and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

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Moving Towards a Healthier Approach

Addressing the mental health impact of competitive exams requires a slow and practical approach-

Don't Jeopardise Your Wellbeing for Academic Success

While academic success is important, a student’s well-being takes top priority, and should not come at the expense of mental well being.  An unhealthy competitive mindset can be created if precautions aren't taken. Competition and mental health need to be viewed as separate entities for a student to work better. There needs to be a balance in a student’s life with adequate support from family and society, and changes need to be incorporated so that students can achieve their full potential without having to compromise their mental health. Recognising and addressing these challenges is very important for bringing out a student’s full potential in a generation with high competition and expectations. 

If you or someone you know has been struggling with mental health problems, we have professionals at "Heart It Out" who are more than happy to help you out! There are diagnostic tests that you can take too!

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