The student, hailing from Rohtak, Haryana, was found hanging in his hostel room in Kota, Rajasthan. A boy was 20 years 20-year-old Neet aspirant committed suicide in Kota, marking the 8th such an incident this year, we delve into the details of this heartbreaking event.
The police initially reported this as a suspected suicide case, but the parents of the deceased have raised doubts, suspecting foul play and demanding a murder investigation.
The tragic incident has shed light on the mental health challenges faced by students in KOta, a hub for aspiring students preparing for competitive exams. The city has witnessed a concerning trend of student suicides, with 8 reported cases this year and a total of 26 student suicides in 2023.
The district administration has addressed this issue, including initiatives like installing spiring-loaded fans in hostels and paying guest accommodations. However, the situation persists, prompting a deeper examination of the underlying causes and necessary preventive measures.
Sumit’s untimely death has sparked a debate on the immense pressure and stress faced by students preparing for competitive exams. The NEET-UG exam, for which Sumit was scheduled to appear next month, serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges and mental health implications associated with the pursuit of academic excellence.
The tragic loss of Sumit Panchal underscores the urgent need for comprehensive support systems and mental health resources to safeguard the well-being of students in high-pressure academic environments like Kota.
The Mental Impact on NEET Aspirants
The National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) has been found to have a significant impact on the mental health f aspirants, particularly in terms of anxiety and depression. Studies have consistently shown that a substantial proportion of students preparing for NEET experience anxiety and depression, with some studies suggesting that more than one-third of students experience anxiety and more than half experience depression.
The pressure to perform well in NNET can lead to stress, which, if not managed may adversely affect mental and physical well-being. This stress can manifest in various ways, including anxiety, depression, self-harm, and even suicidal tendencies. The NEET system has been criticized for its role in exacerbating mental health issues among students, particularly those from marginalized communities.
The mental health of NEET aspirants is further complicated by the socio-economic pressures they face. Students from disadvantaged backgrounds often struggle to cope with the added burden of family and societal expectations, which can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. The focus on academic excellence above all else, and the expectation of students to study for long hours without breaks, can also contribute to the development of mental health problems.
In response to these challenges, experts recommend a range of strategies to help NEET aspirants manage stress and maintain their mental well-being. These include establishing a structured study routine, practicing mindfulness and deep breathing exercises, engaging in regular physical activity, ensuring adequate sleep, maintaining a balanced diet, and cultivating a positive mindset through affirmations. Additionally, seeking professional guidance from counselors or mental health professionals can be beneficial for those who are struggling with overwhelming stress.
Why NEET Students Decide to Commit Suicide
NEET students commit suicide due to a combination of factors, including intense academic pressure, stress, anxiety, and the high expectations associated with preparing for competitive exams like NEET. Research and media reports have highlighted the prevalence of anxiety and depression among NEET aspirants, with a significant number of students experiencing mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. The pressure to excel in NEET, coupled with the fear of failure and the societal emphasis on academic success, can create a toxic environment that takes a toll on students’ mental well-being.
In specific cases like the recent incidents in Kota, where two NEET aspirants tragically took their own lives, the stress of preparing for the exam, fear of not performing well, and the weight of expectation can push students to extreme measures. For example, one student left a note expressing regret over not meeting expectations, indicating the immense psychological burden these students carry. The competitive nature of exams like NEET, the relentless study schedules, and the lack of adequate mental health support systems can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and despair, leading some students to contemplate or act on suicidal thoughts.
It is crucial to recognize the complex interplay of academic pressure, mental health challenges, and societal expectations that contribute to NEET students resorting to suicide. Addressing these requires a multifaceted approach that includes providing mental health support, reducing academic pressure, fostering a supportive academic environment, and promoting open discussions about mental health to prevent such tragic outcomes among NEET aspirants.