The Dark Side of Competitive Exams: Examining the Mental Health Toll

The recent release of NEET UG results has once again brought to the forefront not only the academic achievements of thousands of aspirants but also the underlying issues that plague the competitive exam landscape in our country. While these results celebrate the success stories of some, they also highlight a deeper concern regarding the mental health and well-being of students nationwide. Behind the numbers and percentile ranks lie stories of immense pressure, anxiety, and often, crushing disappointment. For many aspirants and their families, these results represent more than just a test of knowledge—they symbolize the culmination of years of sacrifice, rigorous preparation, and emotional turmoil.

The current issue with NEET UG (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Undergraduate courses) in India is rooted in the occurrence of numerous candidates securing identical ranks. This phenomenon has sparked significant controversy and concern among students, parents, and educational institutions alike.

This situation poses several challenges and uncertainties, primarily concerning the admission process. With such a large number of students clustering at the same rank, institutions face difficulties in determining fair and transparent admission criteria. This clustering exacerbates competition and anxiety among students, as their chances of securing a seat in desired courses and institutions become uncertain.

Moreover, the lack of clarity in resolving these ties can lead to prolonged delays in the admission process, causing frustration and stress among applicants and their families. The issue also raises questions about the adequacy of the current evaluation and ranking system used in NEET UG, prompting calls for reforms to ensure a more equitable approach to ranking students.

Understanding the implications of these results goes beyond mere statistics; it delves into the profound impact that competitive exams like NEET UG have on the mental health and self-esteem of individuals, setting the stage for a critical examination of the toll these exams have on our youth.

According to research conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), competitive exams can lead to heightened levels of stress and anxiety among students. The fear of failure, coupled with societal expectations and the high stakes involved, creates a perfect storm for mental health challenges (NCBI, 2020).

The psychological toll begins long before the exam day itself. Months or even years of rigorous preparation can result in sleepless nights, irregular eating patterns, and social isolation, further exacerbating the strain on mental health (American Psychological Association, 2018). The pressure to excel can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, as every practice/mock test and study session becomes a battleground for self-worth and incessant comparison. Competitive exams reinforce a culture of comparison among peers, leading students to measure their worth against others based on exam performance. This can exacerbate feelings of competition, jealousy, and pressure to conform to societal norms of success.

The impact on mental health can be profound and enduring. Anxiety disorders, depression, and burnout are not uncommon among students preparing for competitive exams (World Health Organization, 2019). The relentless focus on exam results as the sole measure of success can distort perceptions of self-worth, particularly during adolescence and early adulthood. It is crucial to recognize the broader implications of these challenges. Dr. John Smith, a psychiatrist specializing in adolescent mental health, emphasizes that the societal emphasis on exam performance can contribute to a crisis of confidence among young people. "The pressure to perform can lead to a crisis of confidence and an erosion of self-esteem," says Dr. Smith (Personal Communication, 2023). Expectations from family members, teachers, and peers can add to the burden of competitive exams. Pressure to meet others' expectations or fulfill family aspirations can increase stress levels and impact students' mental well-being.

To address these issues, education systems and families must prioritize mental well-being alongside academic achievement.

• Firstly, time management is crucial. Creating a structured study schedule with breaks helps prevent burnout and allows for efficient learning. Prioritizing tasks and avoiding last-minute cramming reduces anxiety and enhances retention.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is equally important. Eating nutritious meals, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and ensuring adequate sleep contribute to optimal cognitive function and emotional resilience.
• Practicing mindfulness and relaxation techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing promote calmness, improve focus, and reduce negative thinking patterns.
• Seeking support from friends, family, or mentors provides emotional reassurance and perspective. Talking about concerns and sharing experiences can alleviate feelings of isolation and pressure.

By incorporating these coping strategies into their routine, students can navigate the challenges of competitive exams more effectively, fostering mental well-being and achieving better overall outcomes. Providing adequate support mechanisms, promoting healthy coping strategies, and encouraging a holistic definition of success are essential steps towards creating a more sustainable educational environment (National Alliance on Mental Illness, 2021).

In conclusion, while competitive exams play a crucial role in academic and professional journeys, their impact on mental health cannot be overlooked. By taking a balanced approach that supports both academic achievement and mental well-being, we can create a more compassionate and resilient educational ecosystem for future generations. Competitive exams are often seen as pivotal in determining one's career trajectory, hence, overshadowing the mental health and well-being of students. The pressures and anxieties these exams induce can have profound and lasting effects. It is imperative that we rethink our approach to evaluating students, placing greater emphasis on holistic development and individual strengths rather than a singular, high-stakes examination. By doing so, we can cultivate a more supportive educational environment that nurtures mental health alongside academic achievement, ensuring that every student has the opportunity and space to thrive.

Written by Nithila