We have been hearing about some tragic cases of student suicides recently, and while they can occur in various settings, there has been a notable surge during JEE/NEET preparation in recent years, particularly among students living away from home. Witnessing young lives lost, which could have been saved, is heartbreaking.
In this context, it is important to identify the common factors that drive students toward depression and loneliness, often leading to suicide. Failing to address these issues promptly can lead to devastating consequences. As a society, it is our collective responsibility to unite and work towards safeguarding the aspirations and lives of these young individuals.
Common factors contributing to low self-esteem and personal crises are:
1. Shyness in Students or Introverted Students:
JEE or NEET preparation demands active participation and interaction from students. They often encounter challenges such as weaker concepts and doubts in their classes. While many students can seek help from peers or teachers, some face shyness and low self-esteem, preventing them from reaching out to friends, teachers, or admin staff.
2. Demoralization from Low Mock Test Scores:
Poor understanding of subjects leading to low test scores significantly impacts a student's self-confidence. This spirals into a sense of low self-esteem, subsequently affecting their overall preparation. The weight of high expectations adds to their struggles, hampering their performance further.
3. Emotional Distress due to Criticism from Teachers or Parents:
Sensitive students often suffer emotional distress when subjected to harsh criticism from parents or teachers, especially in cases of subpar academic performance. Such situations can reduce trust and lead to frustration in students.
4. Communication Barriers in a Strict Environment:
Students embarking on this preparation journey face many kinds of challenges. They require constant motivation and mental support. Unfortunately, some parents are very strict or very busy, leading students to withdraw from communication due to fear of incessant inquiries about their performance or fear of scolding.
5. Feelings of Loneliness and Homesickness:
The first-time experience of being away from family can be overwhelming for many students. This feeling becomes stronger alongside academic pressure to excel.
6. Health Issues and Inadequate Nutrition:
Poor nutrition, nutrient deficiencies, and irregular sleep patterns compound the challenges faced by students and increase preparation-related issues.
7. Unrealistic Expectations from Students:
Competitive exams are rigorous and demand relentless hard work and smart strategies. Average students often find themselves struggling in the company of high achievers, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.
Ways in which parents and coaching classes can provide more effective support:
Parent's Role:
1. Understanding the child and their Journey:
Parents should acknowledge that their duty doesn’t end with enrolling their child in preparation classes. It marks the beginning of a journey filled with challenges. It’s important for them to keep the child motivated and be realistic in expectations from him/her.
2. Effective Communication and unconditional support:
Establishing open and positive communication with their child before enrolling them in such courses is required. If they give confidence to the child that they love him/her irrespective of exam outcomes, the child feels confident. They should take guidance from teachers and mentors, and can significantly improve the situation.
For Coaching Classes:
1. Counselling and Motivation:
Creating a dedicated support team of counselors and providing continuous motivation can greatly benefit students.
2. Staff and parent interaction:
It is essential to educate staff, teachers, and parents to recognize the warning signs or indicators of distressed students, guided by trained professionals.
In conclusion, it is imperative to convey to students that competitive exams do not define the entirety of their lives and that life itself is too precious to succumb to extreme measures. Fostering an environment of love, affection, kindness, and compassion can mitigate depression, reduce loneliness, and in most cases, prevent tragic outcomes.
About Mentor and Mom:
Mentor and Mom is an initiative by Dr. Monika Mittal and her two IITian sons, Ameya Mittal and Sarthak Mittal. With our enriched experience and practice over the years, we provide mentoring and effective study tips to help you prepare for JEE, NEET, and other exams. Our aim is to build a happy, healthy, and motivated student community!
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