Exam blues keep helpline ringing

Experts from these helpline said that the number of calls is only increasing. B Elayaraja, a counselling psychologist at 104 helpline, said, “The calls have increased since last week and we are expecting more calls as the examination date approaches. The students call to ask about the revision techniques and ways to improve memory. Also, this time, we have been receiving lot of calls from parents. Most of them are worried about the eating habits of the child. We suggest the parents to ensure that the child gets enough sleep and they also follow the right diet.” 

The main fear, psychologists said, students have is their concern with the marks. Mental health experts said that it is important to tell children that board exams are just a part of their lives and there are opportunities for everyone, even those who do not score well. “Most of the students call us because they are worried that they will not score well or they will fail in the examinations,” said Lakshmi Vijayakumar, founder, Sneha Suicide Prevention Centre.