In a recent incident, a flood in a Delhi coaching institute's basement has brought attention to the harsh realities faced by UPSC aspirants. While this event revealed infrastructure issues, it also underscored the severe psychological impact of this competitive journey.
Statistics reveal a grim scenario: 35 students take their lives daily, and many UPSC aspirants are familiar with peers who have harmed themselves due to exam stress. The underlying pressure arises from the daunting academic demands of the UPSC syllabus, which often requires 10-12 hours of study per day, impacting sleep, social interactions, and self-care.
Adding to the stress is the unending requirement to stay abreast of current affairs, creating a constant cycle of anxiety. The intense competition and expectations from family and peers only heighten this stress.
Financial concerns also weigh heavily on aspirants, many of whom come from modest backgrounds. The costs of coaching, living, and other expenses quickly accumulate. Some students take up part-time jobs, borrow money, or cut back on essentials to finance their studies.
Recent exam paper leaks, such as in NEET and UGC NET, have further fueled anxiety, casting doubt on the fairness and integrity of the UPSC exam process.
The relentless pressure, isolation, and fear of failure severely affect mental health. Many aspirants report increased feelings of nervousness, frustration, loneliness, and fear. Although some find motivation and personal growth from their peers, a significant number experience a decline in mental well-being.
Coping mechanisms vary widely among students. While some adopt healthy practices like exercise and meditation, others fall into unhealthy patterns, such as smoking or over-studying. Alarmingly, many consider therapy, but few pursue it due to barriers like cost and social stigma.
There is an urgent need for educational institutions, coaching centers, and government bodies to prioritize mental health support for UPSC aspirants. This could involve providing counseling services, promoting stress management strategies, and fostering an environment that removes the stigma around seeking help.
Becoming a civil servant should not come at the expense of one's mental health. It's crucial to acknowledge and address this silent crisis to ensure the path to serving the nation does not turn into a journey of self-destruction.
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