In this competitive world, everyone wants to reach the top, be it professionally or academically. Students all over the world are running a rat race to keep their grades high. Most of the youngsters, especially in college, compromise their health to score more by burning the midnight oil. As a result, they experience burnout and severe mental health issues. The pressure to perform well in academics mostly comes from the expectations of parents and teachers. Other than that, peer-group too can become a source of academic pressure for young adults. Burnout can impact the overall life patterns of students, especially their overall health, interpersonal relationships and their creative expression.
Academic Performance and Well-being
Quality education is one of the most important aspects required to enter into a professional world. The soaring cutoffs of the universities have raised the bar for students. As a result, they strive to outshine and outperform their peers in every aspect. When they get exceptionally good grades, they may experience high sense of elation and well-being. But many students do not realize that in this process of pulling all-nighters just to score highest, they are harming themselves physically and mentally. When they do not perform according to their expectations, they may become depressed.
Demanding Teachers and Parents
Every parent wants their children to be the best in their field. Some give a very harsh treatment to their children and force them to score first in the class even if they are not capable of it either physically or mentally. Those students who intend to score well raise the expectations of teachers. When such students achieve below par, thy feel disheartened and often perceive themselves as failures. The vicious cycle of expectations is the major cause of “health crisis” for the Gen Z. The struggle for marks and external validation creates a huge loss for students in terms of networking, developing life skills and serving the community.
Impact of Perfectionism on Mental Health
The pursuit for academic excellence and perfectionism might lead to sleep deprivation, a sense of derealization or loss of touch with reality, low self-worth and self-esteem. Everyday challenges like headaches, exam anxiety and depression may also surface. A few students fall prey to suicidal behaviors. Suicide ideation is common especially among students who appear
for competitive exams for higher education. Self-harm is one of the consequences for low grades.
Walking the Tightrope
In my view, students should first prioritize their physical and mental health, and only then they will be able to do well in academics. They should realize that “health is wealth.” The best way is to not focus on others’ opinions, be it teachers or parents. Also, they should have a balanced diet with essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Having adequate sound sleep is very important. They should make a time table where they can plan the time for studying, meditation, recreational activities such as sports or any other activity. Networking with friends and family keeps them motivated and leads to increased self-esteem.
Undoubtedly, well-being is the cornerstone of academic success. Also, at the end “you are your own competition”. Students should focus on their progress rather than competing with others. Parents and teachers should also realize that all children are unique and have different capabilities. So, it is very important to accept and to celebrate the differences.
Samya Marwaha
B.SC. Psychology (2020-23)
5th Semester
School of Health Sciences
Sushant University
