Stress, anxiety top Tele Manas calls as exam season begins

TELANGANA: As examination season approaches, stress and anxiety linked to studies have emerged as the most common concerns among callers to Tele Manas, the Centre’s 24×7 tele-counselling mental health support service. Counsellors say students frequently report insomnia, parental pressure and peer comparison, along with difficulty memorising lessons, completing the syllabus and maintaining concentration.

With intermediate public examinations scheduled to begin in February, Tele Manas has readied its response to student mental health needs. While calls related to exams have already begun, officials expect a sharp rise as the exam season peaks. The service can be accessed round the clock through the toll-free number 14416.

Senior psychologist Jawaharlal Nehru P. said many students lack a structured approach to preparation and some display pessimism about outcomes. Counsellors advise students to break preparation into small steps, practise positive thinking and stay motivated. They also guide students on career choices aligned with individual interests.

Highlighting the stigma around mental health in India, he said many hesitate to seek help. “Students can freely approach tele-counsellors. Details shared will be kept confidential. We do not ask for names or locations,” he said.

Parents, too, can contact the helpline if they observe behavioural changes in their children. Vishal Akula, national direct council member of the Indian Psychiatric Society, advised students to focus on basic concepts, plan study gaps and begin the day with difficult subjects before moving to favourites.

He underscored the importance of hydration, noting that many students, especially girls, tend to neglect it. He recommended leafy vegetables rich in folic acid to help reduce stress and fruits such as bananas, high in potassium and magnesium, to ease anxiety.

Parents should avoid comparing their children with peers and instead offer encouragement, Akula said. He added that yoga, regular exercise and physical activity help students remain mentally fit. Counsellors also teach muscle relaxation techniques and desensitisation methods, including exposure response therapy, to help students cope with stress.