CBSE Class 10th 2024: Complete Syllabus, Chapter-wise Weightage, Exam Pattern, Marking Scheme
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In the fast-paced and demanding world of today, stress has become a common part of our lives. Stress and anxiety have crept into every aspect of our lives.
This becomes even more severe when it comes to the students and children.
As per a study, 63.5% of Indian students reported stress due to academic pressure, whereas 66% feel pressured by their parents for better academic performance.
Another study shed light on examination-related fear and found that more than 81% of students fear exams. A separate study published by Statista showcased that around 46% of young individuals aged 16- 24 years deal with stress daily.
In 2021, the Centers of Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), India, issued a report stating that:
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The above data draws light on the increasing need for attention to the mental well-being of children. With this ongoing trend, it becomes quintessential to understand what stress is and how it is affecting our children.
By its definition stress is defined as a natural response to challenging physical, emotional, or psychological situations. Factors that cause stress are called stressors. Our bodies release stress hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which provoke the “fight or flight” response. When dealing with stressors, while this response is usually constructively helpful in certain situations, prolonged, unaddressed and chronic stress can harm our physical and mental health.
To understand how to manage the increased stress levels among students, it is important to understand its root causes.
Stress among students is a widespread issue that various factors can cause. These stressors can affect students at all levels of education, from primary school to university. The tender minds can be easily affected by several factors. Some of the most common ones are as follows:
The most significant source of stress for students is often academic pressure. This pressure includes the demands of exams, assignments, coursework, and maintaining good grades. Students may fear failure or struggle with the sheer volume of work.
Expectations from parents, teachers, or peers to excel academically can create immense stress. Students may feel pressure to meet or exceed these expectations, leading to stress and anxiety.
The fear of exams and standardised tests can trigger anxiety and stress. This anxiety can be particularly intense for high-stakes exams that significantly impact a student’s future, such as college entrance exams.
Major stressors include peer relationships, social acceptance, and fitting in. Bullying, peer pressure to engage in risky behaviours, and social isolation can all contribute to student stress.
Major life transitions, such as starting school, moving to a new city, or transitioning to college, can be stressful. Students may feel overwhelmed by the changes and uncertainties associated with these transitions.
Striving for perfection in academics or other areas of life can create unrealistic expectations, leading to constant stress as students seek to meet unattainable standards.
Physical and mental health issues can contribute to stress. Chronic illnesses, mental health disorders, or injuries can disrupt a student’s ability to perform academically and socially, adding to their stress.
Insufficient support from teachers, parents, or counsellors can exacerbate stress. Students may feel isolated and unheard, compounding their problems.
Excessive use of technology and social media can contribute to stress by exposing students to cyberbullying, unrealistic social comparisons, and information overload.
Rivalry among peers can create a stressful environment. Students may feel pressured to outperform their classmates, leading to unhealthy competition.
Putting off assignments and responsibilities until the last minute can result in heightened stress levels as deadlines approach.
It’s important to note that each student’s experience of stress is unique, and the combination of stressors can vary widely. Moreover, some levels of stress can be motivating. However, when it becomes unaddressed, chronic or overwhelming, it can have detrimental effects on a student’s mental and physical health and academic performance. Recognising these stressors and providing students with the tools and support to manage them effectively is crucial for their well-being in the long run.
Managing stress and nurturing well-being among children is essential for their development and happiness. Childhood is a formative period where they learn how to cope with stress and build the foundation for lifelong well-being. Here are some tips to help children manage stress and nurture their well-being:
By implementing these tips, you can help children build resilience, develop effective coping mechanisms, and nurture their overall well-being. It is important to remember that each child is unique, and it’s essential to tailor your approach to their needs, preferences and causes.
Identifying early signs of mental health troubles among students is crucial for timely intervention and support. While every individual may exhibit different symptoms, here are some common early signs to look for:
It’s important to note that these signs can vary from person to person, and some individuals may hide their struggles well. Suppose you observe any of these early signs in a student. In that case, it’s essential to approach them with empathy, offer support, and encourage them to seek help from a professional or a counsellor. Early recognition and intervention can make a significant difference in managing and improving mental health issues among students.
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