Survey Reveals 20% of Students Lack Motivation and Support

A recent survey conducted by the IC3 Movement has revealed that one in five students struggles with motivation and emotional well-being. The study, which encompassed over 8,500 students from classes 8 to 12, highlighted critical gaps in mental health support and career guidance within educational institutions.

The findings indicate that nearly 40% of respondents are unaware of where to seek mental health support at school. Furthermore, almost half of the students reported they have never received structured career counseling, leaving many feeling lost and anxious about their futures.

Sleep Deprivation and Stress Among Students

The survey also noted concerning trends related to sleep deprivation. Approximately 75% of class 12 students do not achieve the recommended 7 to 8 hours of sleep on school nights, a situation exacerbated by academic pressures and increased screen time. As students navigate their studies, a significant source of stress stems from uncertainty about their future paths, further compounding the pressures they face during adolescence.

Among the survey’s findings, it was noted that girls are more likely to internalize stress rather than seek professional help. In contrast, non-binary students reported the lowest levels of overall well-being. While friends often serve as the first line of support in times of distress, many lack the necessary skills to provide effective assistance.

Growing Awareness and Institutional Support

Despite these challenges, the survey uncovered a positive trend: an increasing number of schools are recognizing the importance of mental health counseling and support. Awareness among students about available resources is also on the rise.

The Supreme Court of India has recently called attention to the need for robust school-based counseling systems, reinforcing the urgency of addressing mental health issues among students. This movement aims to legitimize efforts to create supportive environments in educational settings.

The survey was developed using Google Forms and disseminated through email and WhatsApp, with the aim of raising awareness about mental health challenges facing the youth in India. Notably, previous reports have identified specific periods, particularly from March to July, as critical times for mental health, correlating with exam results and college admissions.

The results from the IC3 Movement survey underscore the pressing need for comprehensive mental health support and structured career guidance for students. As educational institutions begin to acknowledge these issues, there is hope that meaningful changes will be implemented to support the well-being of young people.