Anxiety is a common experience during board exams, which is often considered one of the most stressful phases in a student’s academic journey. The intense pressure to perform well can stem from multiple sources, including the expectations of family members, teachers, peers, and the students themselves. This burden, combined with the fear of failure, can lead to significant emotional distress. A study by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (NIMHANS) found that 20-30% of Indian students experience exam-related anxiety to a level that impairs daily functioning. Other studies indicate that approximately 80% of students experience some level of exam-related anxiety.
A critical distinction exists between two types of stress: eustress and distress. Eustress is a positive form of stress that motivates students to stay focused and perform better. However, many students experience distress, which affects their concentration, memory, and overall well-being. When distress becomes overwhelming, it leads to test anxiety, which is characterized by physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, feelings of dread, difficulty concentrating, and negative self-talk. The pervasive nature of test anxiety is not only detrimental to academic achievement but also to the mental health of students. The pressure to meet high expectations can hurt a student’s confidence, making them feel inadequate. This stress creates a cycle where anxiety affects performance, leading to even more anxiety and lower self-confidence. In some cases, the fear of failure becomes so overwhelming that students start avoiding studies or even skip exams.
