Aug 07, 2024
UPSC:The Psychological Pressure Cooker of UPSC Preparation
The recent tragedy of a flooded coaching institute basement in Delhi has cast a spotlight on the extreme conditions faced by UPSC aspirants. While the incident exposed infrastructural flaws, it also hinted at a deeper issue: the immense psychological toll that this competitive journey takes on students. The data is alarming: 35 students tragically take their lives each day, with a quarter of UPSC aspirants knowing someone who has self-harmed or attempted suicide due to exam pressure.
This pressure stems from various sources. The academic rigor of the UPSC syllabus is immense, requiring 10-12 hours of daily study, often at the cost of sleep, social life, and basic self-care. The constant need to stay updated on current events fuels a perpetual cycle of stress. Furthermore, fierce competition and high expectations from family and peers exacerbate this burden.
Financially, the stakes are high. Many aspirants come from modest backgrounds, making the preparation process a significant financial burden. Coaching fees, living expenses, and other costs add up quickly. A significant number of students resort to part-time jobs, borrowing money, or even cutting back on necessities to fund their preparation.
Recent exam paper leaks in NEET and UGC NET have added another layer of stress, fueling anxiety about the integrity of the UPSC exam itself. This fear of unfairness and uncertainty further contributes to the mental strain on aspirants.
The relentless pressure, isolation, and fear of failure have a devastating impact on mental health. A majority of aspirants report increased nervousness, frustration, loneliness, and fear since starting their preparation. While some experience personal growth and motivation from their peers, a significant number report a deterioration in their mental well-being.
Coping mechanisms vary, with some students turning to healthy habits like exercise and meditation, while others resort to unhealthy behaviors like smoking or excessive studying. Alarmingly, a significant proportion of students have considered seeking therapy, but only a small percentage actually do so due to various barriers like affordability and stigma.
The need for urgent action is clear. Educational institutions, coaching centers, and the government must prioritize mental health support for UPSC aspirants. This could include providing counseling services, promoting stress management techniques, and creating a supportive environment that reduces the stigma associated with seeking help.
The dream of becoming a civil servant should not come at the cost of one's mental health. It's time to recognize and address this silent crisis to ensure that the journey towards serving the nation does not become a path of self-destruction.
SRIRAM's
