How students can excel academically without compromising on mental health

Vijay Garg 

 

 

In today's fast-paced world, students are often caught between academic pressures, social responsibilities, and career pressure at the cost of their well-being. The struggle to find balance can be challenging, with the added pressure of exam stress and the constant comparison fuelled by social media.

 

 

THE BALANCING ACT BETWEEN ACADEMICS AND SOCIAL LIFE

When most students arrive at college, they often struggle to balance their academics and social lives. This is because, unlike at school, they do not have their teachers or parents telling them what to do about their studies, classes, etc.

 

To combat this, Dr  suggests creating a structure or a timetable that students can follow daily. Having a schedule for when they need to study and when they can socialise will allow them to plan their lives better.

 

THE IMPACT OF SOCIAL MEDIA ON STUDENT WELLBEING

More than 33% of social media users in India are college students. A survey conducted in 2023 revealed that more than half of Indian youth aged 9-17 spend over 3 hours daily on social media and gaming.

 

However, the flip side of spending time on social media is the unnecessary pressure and competition it creates among students. "You only see the result on social media, not the process," says Dr Jini. This creates a skewed perception, with students believing they are not doing as well as their peers.

 

MOBILE PHONE OVERUSE AMONG YOUNG ADULTS

 

 

Along with increased time spent on social media, there has also been an increase in screen time with young adults. After the second wave of COVID-19, screen time rose by more than 75% for college students and has been growing ever since.

 

This has become a growing source of stress for college students. The constant barrage of notifications—emails, messages, and social media alerts—creates an environment where students never truly switch off. As Dr points out, "Even when students are physically at home, they’re mentally replaying their academic or social pressures because they struggle to disconnect."

 

HOW COUNSELLING CAN HELP

When students are juggling multiple demands, counselling can play a huge role in their mental well-being. However, while stigma can prevent students from seeking help, young students must be made aware of how counselling can help them better manage some of their stress.

 

As Dr explains, "Counselling is not just about listening it's about helping students generate more options and view their problems from a new angle".

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF CREATING THE RIGHT ENVIRONMENT

Education institutions are also responsible for nurturing a psychologically safe space for students. By fostering open communication channels in academics, exams, etc., and by promoting mental health awareness on campus, colleges can equip students with the tools they need to succeed both academically and personally.

 

 

 

Colleges can also schedule regular interaction sessions with alumni. Dr Jini explains that listening to alumni talk about their professional and academic lives can offer a balanced view of professional and academic achievements.