Dr Ritika Sambyal
Behind the closed doors of study rooms, students fight silent battles against their own doubts, fear, and stress, as the date of the board exams inches closer. Board exams-a milestone that every student is familiar with.
From middle school to senior secondary education, these exams are often seen as the defining moment in a student’s academic life. While the idea of board exams is supposed to be a sign of progress, many students experience intense fear and anxiety leading up to them. The pressure to perform, the expectations of family and society, and the uncertainty about the future can create a storm of emotions in young minds. Yet, this overwhelming fear is rarely discussed, and often it remains silent, festering behind the scenes. The silence of a student’s struggle often speaks louder than words-behind every exam paper lays the pressure, anxiety, and fear of what the future might hold.
The fear of board exams is not a mere aversion to studying or an occasional attack of nervousness. It is a much deeper struggle that can impact a student’s mental and emotional well-being. For many students, the board exams are seen as the gateway to their future, determining their opportunities for higher education, scholarships and in some cases, even their career paths. This creates a feeling of being trapped in a cycle of endless expectations and demands.
Three interconnected fear factors
Fear of Failure: The pressure to perform well in board exams is immense, with students fearing the consequences of failure. They worry about letting down their parents, teachers, or even themselves. This fear can overshadow every aspect of their preparation, making it hard to focus on the task at hand.
High Expectations: With the growing competition in academic environments, students often feel burdened by the weight of expectations placed upon them. Whether it’s pressure from family or peers, there is an unspoken desire to be the best, to achieve top marks, to prove worthiness. When this expectation exceeds one’s capacity or confidence, it exacerbates anxiety and fear.
The Pressure of the Future: Students are acutely aware that their results will determine their next steps-college admissions, career choices, and the kind of opportunities they will have in life. This future-oriented anxiety can feel overwhelming and paralyzing, as students begin to believe that their entire future hinges on their performance in these exams.
The Silent Struggles: A Hidden Crisis
While the fear of board exams is common, it often goes unnoticed. Many students put on a brave face, pretending to be fine, when internally; they are battling stress, anxiety, and sometimes even depression. The struggle is silent, because in the competitive, achievement-driven culture of education, expressing vulnerability or weakness is often frowned upon. This silent battle can manifest in various ways: sleepless nights, loss of appetite, persistent headaches, or even panic attacks before exams. Students may withdraw from social activities, cut off communication with friends, and retreat into isolation, fearing that if they don’t perform, they will be judged or criticised. Worse, they may resort to unhealthy coping mechanisms such as over-exercising, over-indulging in caffeine, or using substances to cope with the pressure.
Unfortunately, this fear is not always addressed by the system. Teachers, parents, and even peers may unknowingly contribute to the cycle of stress by pushing students harder, setting unrealistic goals, or not creating an environment of emotional support. Instead of celebrating effort and growth, the focus is often on results-this is where the real problem lies.
Recognising that fear exists is the first step toward addressing it. Students, parents, and educators need to understand that the fear of board exams is not an individual weakness, but a shared challenge that can be overcome through collective effort. There is no magic solution, but by adopting a healthier, more balanced approach to preparing for board exams, students can significantly reduce the pressure they feel. Here are some effective ways to cope:
Mindset Shift: Embrace Effort, Not Perfection: The first step in overcoming the fear is to acknowledge that exams are just one part of a much bigger journey. Success does not have to be defined solely by grades or marks. Instead of stressing over perfection, students should focus on consistent effort and self-improvement. This shift in mindset can be liberating, reducing the weight of unrealistic expectations and allowing students to engage with their studies more productively.
Create a Supportive Environment: Board exams do not have to be a solitary struggle. A supportive environment is essential in managing fear and anxiety. Students should not hesitate to communicate their fears with family members, friends, or mentors. Conversations can help reduce emotional burdens, and they may even provide practical solutions that students may not have considered.
Effective Time Management and Organisation: A significant source of stress is the feeling of being unprepared or overwhelmed. Procrastination often compounds this anxiety. One of the most effective ways to combat fear is through proper time management. By creating a study schedule, setting achievable goals, and breaking down the syllabus into smaller, manageable tasks, students can reduce the sense of chaos and gain a sense of control over their preparation. A study routine that includes breaks, exercise, and relaxation is also crucial. Research has shown that taking regular breaks and engaging in physical activity can enhance concentration and reduce stress.
Practice Mindfulness and Stress- Relief Techniques: Mindfulness and stress-relief practices such as meditation, deep breathing, physical exercise or yoga can work wonders in helping students calm their nerves. These techniques are proven to reduce stress, increase focus, and promote emotional well-being. Students should include brief sessions of mindfulness into their daily routine. For example, taking five minutes to breathe deeply or to meditate can help reset the mind, reduce anxiety, and improve focus.
Promote a Holistic View of Success: Finally, society must recognise that success is not just measured by academic achievements alone. While board exams are important, they do not define a person’s worth or future potential. Talents, passions, and life experiences all contribute to an individual’s growth and success. By promoting a more balanced view of success, we can create a healthier, less stressful environment for students to thrive in.
The fear of board exams is real, and it affects many students in ways that are often invisible to those around them. But it doesn’t have to be a silent struggle. By creating a supportive environment, fostering a healthy mindset, and implementing practical strategies, students can manage and ultimately overcome their fear of board exams. Always remember that exams are not only a test of knowledge but also a reflection of how we manage life’s pressures. Approach them with a calm, focused, and balanced mindset.
(The author is a Faculty, at Udhampur Campus, University of Jammu)
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