As the board exams are approaching, the mental well-being of students has become a paramount concern. The latest NCERT mental health survey (2022) underscores the significant role examination stress plays in exacerbating anxiety among students, with a staggering 81 percent citing studies, exams, and results as major triggers. With the release of date sheets, students have undoubtedly intensified their preparations, yet stress levels remain palpably high. This is where the pivotal role of parents comes into play, as they hold the key to mitigating their children’s examination stress without compromising academic performance.
Understanding the root causes of examination stress is imperative for parents seeking to support their children effectively. Factors such as high expectations, subject selection, comparisons, lack of guidance, intense competition, and societal pressures contribute to the overwhelming burden students face. In the face of these challenges, parents must adopt a multifaceted approach to alleviate their children’s stress and foster a conducive environment for academic success.
First and foremost, parents must normalize feelings of stress, emphasizing to their children that experiencing such emotions is a natural response to undertaking significant tasks. Rather than shielding them from stress, parents should encourage their children to perceive it as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. Open communication channels wherein children can freely express their concerns and anxieties are essential, as it allows parents to provide reassurance and support.
Effective time management is another crucial aspect of parental involvement in alleviating examination stress. Parents can assist their children in devising realistic study plans encompassing preparation, revision, and practice sessions. By adhering to structured timetables, students can avoid last-minute rushes and panic, thereby fostering a sense of control and confidence in their abilities. Moreover, ensuring adequate sleep is paramount, as it enhances concentration and overall exam preparedness, while mitigating fatigue, anxiety, and irritability.
Beyond logistical support, parents must actively engage in their children’s academic pursuits, offering guidance, encouragement, and assistance where needed. Understanding their children’s limitations enables parents to provide targeted support in challenging subjects, facilitating comprehension and retention. Engaging in discussions on key study concepts, assisting with problem-solving, and employing mnemonic devices are effective strategies parents can employ to bolster their children’s confidence and academic performance.
Recognizing the importance of balance, parents should advocate for regular breaks and relaxation periods during study sessions. Encouraging hobbies, physical exercise, and mindfulness activities not only rejuvenates the mind but also promotes overall well-being, ensuring students remain calm and stress-free amidst academic pressures. Furthermore, fostering a friendly and supportive environment at home cultivates a sense of security and openness, enabling children to express their concerns without fear of judgment or criticism.
Vigilance is paramount in identifying signs of stress among children, including physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach pains, and sleep disturbances, as well as emotional indicators like irritability, loss of interest, and negative mood changes. Providing a listening ear and offering emotional support can help alleviate anxiety and instill confidence in children, fostering resilience and coping skills essential for navigating academic challenges.
Flexibility is the key during exam periods, as parents must prioritize their children’s well-being over household chores or familial conflicts. Recognizing that exams are temporary endeavors, parents should minimize distractions and create a conducive environment for focused study. Importantly, parents must prioritize self-care, as their own well-being directly impacts their ability to support their children effectively. Maintaining a positive outlook, focusing on efforts rather than outcomes, and reframing exam results as mere benchmarks of progress are essential for fostering a healthy parent-child dynamic during stressful periods.
In conclusion, while examinations may bring about stress and anxiety, parents can play a crucial role in alleviating these feelings and supporting their children’s academic journey. By fostering open communication, providing practical support, and prioritizing self-care, parents can empower their children to navigate exams with confidence, resilience, and a positive mindset. Ultimately, parents must remember that the true measure of success lies not in exam scores but in the growth, perseverance, and determination cultivated along the way.
(Author is Senior Academic Officer, State Council Of Educational Research and Training J&K. Email: [email protected])
