From January to March of this year, NCERT Manodarpa Cell conducted a survey in 36 states and Union Territories.
The survey emphasized on the effects of studies on the mental health of students and the respondents were divided into two groups, the middle age (Classes 6-8) and the secondary age (Classes 9-12).
Of the total, 3.79 lakh students, 81% polled that studies, exams and results cloak the major part of the stress among them.
Further, the survey reiterated that 45% of the students were not satisfied with their physical appearance followed by body image while 33% were trapped in the web of peer pressure.
It further provides that about 45% of the students felt tired twice or thrice a week and a total of 34% felt tearful and 27% felt lonely.
However, there is a slight gender difference; approximately 50% of girls are more anxious about their studies than approximately 47% of boys.
The survey emphasised that as students shift from middle to secondary stage, a gradual decline can be seen in their personal and school life satisfaction.
Also, the challenges of identity crisis, increased vicissitudes towards relationships, peer pressures, questions of self-doubt, anxiety and uncertain future mark in the secondary stage of school students.
The evaluation of the student’s mental health was based on their perception of what they see themselves, their image in the social context, their satisfaction with life, the emotions they experienced, their fears and challenges and mechanisms they use to cope with their emotions.
Scenario worsened due to pandemic
The survey also focused on the changes made in the lifestyle of school going children during the pandemic.
Nearly half of secondary school children and almost 40% of their younger counterparts reported experiencing mood swings during the pandemic.
Further, the report also gave an insight into the insecurities of third-gender students. The report mentioned that such students have low-confidence about their physical appearance and body image.
The survey’s recommendations noted that the schools must make all possible efforts to fade the gap that occurred during the Covid period and resolve the mental and emotional well-being of students by creating an acceptable environment with care and support for students.
It further suggested that the schools must integrate mental and emotional well-being of the students at every stage of instruction.
