A student’s mental well-being encompasses emotional, social, and psychological health, all of which play a vital role in academic performance. It is therefore essential for achieving academic success. Competitive exams serve as gateways to numerous global opportunities. Standardized tests such as the SAT, GRE, and language proficiency exams like PTE, TOEFL, and IELTS are often required for admission into top universities or for pursuing career opportunities abroad.
Consequently, the pressure to perform well in these examinations is often much greater than commonly perceived. Mental health becomes a critical factor in achieving success during such high-stakes assessments.
It is entirely natural for students to experience anxiety before an exam. Research indicates that a certain level of stress can actually enhance focus and performance. However, if not managed properly, this stress can escalate into chronic anxiety and lead to burnout. Studies have shown that nearly 40% of students experience anxiety while preparing for competitive exams. For those aiming to study abroad, the pressure is compounded by additional challenges such as language barriers and the need to adapt to unfamiliar cultures.
Mamta Shekhawat, Founder, Gradding shares how to balance competitive exam preparations with mental wellness.
1. Building foundation strategies for self-care
● The experts provide students with a detailed study schedule designed to prevent exhaustion. They break down the syllabus into manageable daily targets and allocate dedicated time for revisions. This structured approach enhances retention and helps avoid mental fatigue.
● The goal is to familiarize students with the exam pattern. This is not merely about thorough preparation; it also serves as psychological reinforcement. By working through past papers and analyzing question trends, students can minimize exam-day surprises and preserve their mental energy for critical thinking.
● Mock tests serve a purpose beyond practice—they help in reducing stress. Regular testing under timed conditions consistently leads to improved performance. Each mock test becomes a valuable learning experience, enabling students to review their mistakes and refine their strategies.
2. Improving mental wellness for success
● Incorporate meditation and deep-breathing exercises into your routine. These practices lower your stress levels and improve focus.
● Exercise is a study aid. To combat stress, walking or yoga sessions are great. In fact, these also enhance memory retention. Along with this nutritious diet fuels brain functioning.
● Sacrificing sleep for extra study hours will only have negative results. Sleep consolidates learning and activates your brain for solving problems. Thus, you must aim for a good 7–8 hours night sleep. Besides, avoiding screen an hour before bed will help you improve the quality of your sleep.
3. Have a Support System and safety net
Having a support system and people who can cheer you up and motivate you is a blessing in disguise. Isolation can result in more stress. Thus, connect with mentors, peers, family, and friends to share struggles and celebrate small wins. Besides, having a study group can also provide motivation. However, comparison with others is not advisable as this may hamper your growth.
A team of dedicated professionals supports students by providing strategic academic planning and promoting holistic development. Educators place equal importance on mental resilience and academic excellence, ensuring that students are equipped to thrive both personally and academically in their global pursuits.