School students: Great mental health for better academic pursuits in 2025-26

Have you noticed that as exams come closer, your child’s behaviour or mood changes? Is there a problem or not sleeping or boredom or anxiousness? Has your child lost the appetite and excitement to play or study?

These are all signs of disturbance in mental health. Today’s generation of students are under immense pressure to excel academically. This pressure often stems from parents. They push their children to perform exceptionally well. Ignoring the impact of adverse mental health on students is dangerous. The relentless focus on grades and academic success is taking a toll on their little minds.

The constant stress and anxiety to meet parental expectations affect their emotional well-being, physical health and overall performance. Students are increasingly experiencing burnout, sleep deprivation, and a lack of enthusiasm for learning. These are clear indicators of deteriorating mental health. It is crucial to address these issues to ensure that they can pursue their academic goals without compromise.

As one of the top CBSE schools in Boduppal, Siddhartha Public School puts focus on their students’ interests beyond academic performance. This blog contains information to help parents to reflect on the importance of mental health for students.

Causes and Roots of Pressure for Indian Students

The pressure on Indian students to perform academically is deeply rooted in societal and cultural expectations. Some of the key causes include:

• Exams: The emphasis on high-stakes examinations as the sole measure of success creates immense stress.

• Competitiveness Among Peers: Students are constantly compared to their classmates, fostering a toxic environment of competition.

• Need for Good Education: The belief that only top grades can secure admission to prestigious institutions adds to the pressure.

• Fulfilling Parents’ Dreams: Many children feel obligated to live up to their parents’ unfulfilled aspirations, which can be overwhelming.
  Studies show that nearly 75% of Indian students are pressured to excel in their studies and achieve high grades, often at the cost of their mental health.

Students Struggle

The pressure to perform academically manifests in various ways, leaving students struggling to cope:

1. Sleep Deprivation: They sacrifice sleep to study longer hours, leading to exhaustion.
2. Poor Eating Habits: Irregular meals and unhealthy snacking become common as students prioritize studies over nutrition.
3. Lack of Playtime: Physical activities and outdoor games are often neglected, affecting their physical health.
4. No Mental Stimulation: A monotonous routine of tuition, studies, homework, and projects leaves no room for creative or recreational activities.
5. Exam Anxiety: Nearly 40% of students report feeling extremely anxious during exams, impacting their performance.
6. Mental Health Concerns: The constant stress leads to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, which often go unnoticed.

Need for Mental Health Programs in Schools

Recognizing the growing mental health crisis, Siddhartha Public School, Hyderabad is taking proactive steps to improve student lives. We implement programs that focus on holistic development. Key strategies include which we use as one of the top CBSE schools in Boduppal:

• Study Breaks: Short breaks during study sessions help the brain rest and improve focus.
• Regular Exercise and Outdoor Play: Physical activity is essential for reducing stress and improving overall well-being.
• Open Communication: Encouraging students to talk to parents and teachers about their worries alleviates stress.
• Relaxation Techniques: Practices like deep breathing, meditation, or occasional outings help to relax.
• Parental Support: They play a crucial role in reducing pressure by setting realistic expectations and providing emotional support.

Overcoming Fear of Failure

Fear of failure or poor performance is a significant contributor to student anxiety. It is essential to normalize failure as a part of the learning process. It can be used to encourage students to view it as an opportunity for growth.

Seeking professional help, such as counselling is beneficial for those exhibiting signs of severe stress or behavioural changes. Our schools and parents create a supportive environment. Children feel safe to express their concerns and seek help when needed.

Prioritizing mental health is not just a necessity but a responsibility. Addressing the root causes of stress and implementing effective mental health programs are pivotal. Have you recently noticed any changes in your child’s personality? Communicate and be gentle, as exams are round the corner.