Aavishkar Centre has launched a toll-free helpline: 9172284386 called ‘Hum Aapki Sunenge’ for students and parents providing mental health support for students. The helpline is open between 9 am to 5 pm for any support.
The ‘anxious and stressful’ exam season is here. These past two years have been especially stressful, given the unpredictability and fears due to the pandemic. A large number of students are left confused and unsure about what and how they should be planning their studies. This uncertainty only makes their tasks harder. Aavishkar Center for Self-Enrichment supported by a team of 80 volunteers and trained by Dr. Nirmala Rao, has taken on the challenge of addressing student mental health issues and is offering counselling through this Helpline.
The initiative that began last year amidst the pandemic supporting the mental health of the society, extends support on contextual issues. This year has been especially challenging for students with the massive chaos and confusion caused by the pandemic. The Centre is focusing on SSC, HSC and other students in a bid to help in their mental health.
Speaking on the initiative, Dr. Nirmala Rao from Aavishkar Center said, “Exam time has always been stressful for students. The uncertainty in the outside world has been made more intense with the added debate of online versus offline school /college exams. Students are left confused and unsure about what they should be planning, which only makes their tasks harder. Hence, we wish to offer a listening ear, especially to students, hopefully helping them navigate these times a little more smoothly.”
Studies have shown that about 58% of Indian college students experience a significant increase in their stress levels and severe deterioration in their emotions during exams. In another study conducted among college students in India, after the assessment of the psychometric scales, it was discovered that 66.8% had high fear of contracting COVID-19, 28.7% had moderate to severe depression due to the pandemic, and 51.5% showed mild to severe anxiety symptoms. So, the helpline will be a big support for students in this exam season.
