Stress and Anxiety Among Students

Every student faces challenges—be it academic, social, or emotional. These pressures can build up silently and lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety, often unnoticed by adults.

In recent times, the environment in boarding schools in Dehradun has highlighted how isolation from home, peer competition, and tight schedules can add to this emotional burden.

Why Students Feel Anxious: Key Factors

Several triggers commonly contribute to stress among students:

• Academic pressure to perform well

• Fear of failure or disappointing parents

• Social difficulties, such as bullying or peer pressure

• Sleep deprivation due to busy routines

• Unspoken expectations from teachers and elders

Understanding these root causes helps parents and educators respond more empathetically.

Spotting the Silent Signs

Not every child voices their feelings. Watch for subtle behavioral changes:

• Sudden drop in academic performance

• Withdrawal from social activities

• Changes in appetite or sleep

• Frequent headaches or stomach aches

• Increased irritability or sadness

Early identification is crucial for timely help.

Ways to Support Students Emotionally

Simple, consistent actions can help reduce stress:
 Open Conversations: Make time for casual, non-judgmental talks.
 Active Listening: Let students speak freely—without offering solutions too soon.
 Create Safe Spaces: Whether at home or school, ensure there’s a comfort zone.
 Encourage Breaks: Support hobbies, nature walks, or music for emotional balance.

Support works best when it's gentle, steady, and without pressure.

What Schools Can Do Differently

To build emotionally healthy students, schools can:

• Add regular mental health check-ins

• Conduct stress-management workshops

• Train teachers in emotional intelligence

• Promote activities beyond academics

• Keep smaller class sizes to personalize care

A proactive school environment can become a strong pillar of student well-being.

A Shared Responsibility

Reducing stress among students isn’t the job of one person. It’s a joint effort by parents, teachers, peers, and the system itself. Students thrive when they feel understood and accepted—not just evaluated.