SRINAGAR: A study conducted by the Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences (IMHANS) has revealed alarming findings concerning levels of academic stress among students in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
The study advises parents and guardians to closely monitor their children in response to the revelation that 60-65 percent of school-going children in the region are grappling with academic-related stress.
The study, titled “Prevalence of psychiatric morbidity among school-going adolescents in the age group of 13–19 years,” indicates a remarkably high prevalence of psychiatric morbidity, particularly anxiety combined with depression, among adolescents in Kashmir. Many of these cases go unidentified and untreated.
The study found that depression emerged as the most common psychiatric illness among adolescents, with a higher prevalence in males, while anxiety disorders were found to be more common among females. Conducted across 16 schools in the twin districts of Srinagar and Ganderbal, the study underscores the urgent need for attention to mental health challenges affecting students.
Academic Stress Causes Various Illnesses
“Stress plays an essential role in the development of various illnesses. Academic stress, stresses from personal life and the environment, as well as those arising from conflict, may be important,” states the study. Dr. Ubaid Rasool, one of the study’s authors, emphasized the need for teachers to change their attitude towards students, particularly as the study revealed high academic stress levels among students in classes 9 to 12.
The results highlight a worrying pattern of academic stress affecting students, leading to depression, anxiety, and various other mental health challenges. The study also found that panic disorder and borderline personality disorder were more commonly found among females compared to males. Furthermore, it noted that 34 percent from urban and 28 percent from rural areas met the criteria for any psychiatric disorder.
Dr. Yasir Hassan, Professor at IMHANS, expressed concern, stating that if these mental health issues are not addressed during adolescence, patients may develop suicidal tendencies in the future. The study serves as a critical call for immediate attention to the mental well-being of students in the region.
