Dr Ashok Kumar Psychiatry Clinic

23/02/2026

20/02/2026

Mental Health During Exams:

For many college students, exams bring anxiety, self-doubt, sleep disturbances, and overwhelming pressure. For parents, it is often a period filled with concern, expectations, and silent worry.
Mental health during exams is not just a student’s issue — it is a shared responsibility.

Why Are Exams So Stressful?

During exams, several stressors combine: Fear of failure Comparison with peers High parental or self-expectations Uncertainty about future careers Social media pressure Lack of sleep and irregular routine

A moderate level of stress can improve performance.

Common Signs of Exam-Related Mental Strain
Students may experience:.

.Persistent anxiety or panic Irritability or mood swings Avoidance of studies Sleep disturbances Loss of appetite or overeating Headaches, stomach issues Negative self-talk (“I am not capable,” “I will fail.”)

Parents should watch for sudden behavioral changes, social withdrawal, extreme emotional reactions, or expressions of hopelessness.
Early recognition prevents bigger problems.

Practical Coping Strategies for Students
Here are simple techniques:

1. Break large subjects into small achievable targets. Completion builds confidence.
2. Study for 50 minutes, take a 10-minute break.
3. At least 6–8 hours of sleep improves memory consolidation and emotional balance.
4. Every student has a different pace. Comparison increases anxiety but not marks.
5. Deep breathing, short walks, stretching, or 5-minute mindfulness can calm the nervous system.
6. Talk It Out

A Message to Parents
Your role during exams is crucial.
Students do not only need advice — they need emotional safety.

Remember — marks measure performance in an exam, not intelligence, character, or future success.

- When to Seek Professional Help

Persistent anxiety
Severe mood changes
Self-harm thoughts
Complete withdrawal
Panic attacks
Professional mental health support should not be delayed. Seeking help is a sign of responsibility, not weakness.

For students — trust your effort.
For parents — trust your child.

22/01/2026

04/01/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1DTEiVoYg5/

Nearly four out of five Indians living with psychiatric disorders are not receiving timely or appropriate treatment, the Indian Psychiatric Society has warned, describing the gap as a serious national health and development challenge. The concern was raised at the curtain raiser of the society’s annual conference, scheduled from January 28 to 31 at Yashobhoomi, where experts highlighted that despite improved therapies and growing awareness, most patients remain outside the formal healthcare system.

Citing data from the National Mental Health Survey, IPS said over 85 per cent of Indians with common mental disorders do not seek or receive treatment, placing India among countries with the widest mental health treatment gaps globally. IPS president Dr Savita Malhotra said stigma, low awareness and poor integration of mental health services with primary healthcare continue to delay early intervention, even though most mental illnesses are highly treatable if detected in time.

Experts warned that delayed or absent care often leads to chronic illness, disability, family distress, loss of productivity and an increased risk of self-harm and su***de. They stressed that vulnerable groups such as children, adolescents and older adults are most affected, with a majority remaining untreated. While initiatives like Tele MANAS and district mental health programmes are positive steps, IPS said mental healthcare requires far greater investment, workforce expansion and sustained awareness efforts to bridge the gap.

07/12/2025

Grateful for the beautiful Lord Ganesha painting gifted by my patient. Your respect and affection mean a lot. Thank you for this heartfelt gesture. 🙏✨

24/11/2025

Taking a break in nature, far from the daily hustle, refreshes the mind. It works like a gentle therapy that melts away stress....

07/11/2025

03/11/2025

Thank you to The Downtown School for organizing an awareness session on “Mobile — A Curse or a Blessing for Children.” It’s a wonderful initiative to help students understand the right use of technology from an early age. Truly appreciated! 📱

29/10/2025

To my second batch of interns — best of luck for your future! Keep learning, keep growing, and make a difference wherever you go.