Every individual should be aware of the importance of mental health at all times, especially during UPSC preparation. The UPSC test is one of the most difficult to pass, with a finite number of attempts and nearly six to ten lakh people taking the exam each year, only a small percentage of them make the cut. With such huge stakes, there is undoubtedly a great deal of pressure to pass the extremely competitive exam. This has a negative impact on the mental health of many students. Therefore it is very important to take care of one’s physical as well as mental health during their UPSC preparation. This article highlights the importance of mental health and some ways for dealing with mental health difficulties during UPSC Preparation.
Apart from a rigorous study regimen, an IAS applicant faces plenty of challenges during the test preparation process, including living alone, budgeting, keeping up with coaching institutes, and health concerns. As we face increasing rivalry among UPSC applicants and students fight to keep their thoughts in check, the tension spreads to the students’ families and loved ones. While studying, we tend to remain aloof and undisturbed. Our parents and families make sure we receive our personal time, staying alone for an extended period of time can trigger unpleasant thoughts.
Candidates must overcome their fear of the exam and focus on giving their best effort. De-stressing is, in a nutshell, a process of cultivating a happy mindset and strengthening willpower.
Some ways in which you can take care of your mental health during your UPSC preparation:
- Good nutrition is very crucial to sustain health during exam time. High fat, high sugar, and high caffeine foods are more harmful than beneficial. Any of them in excess might make a person restless and even moody. Proper nutrition at regular intervals, combined with so little activity, can help keep the mind in check.
- Sleep promotes clear thinking and concentration. About half an hour before bed, avoid any stimulating activities such as studying, watching TV, or playing games. This aids the body’s transition into sleep mode. Multiple studies have shown that a well-rested mind is considerably more likely to score well in an exam than one that’s been awake all night. Get enough rest the night prior any exam.
- Taking breaks is an important part of the UPSC exam preparation. If you think you won’t be able to take any more exams, don’t force yourself to read for another hour. When the mind is exhausted and you can’t take any more information in, it’s best to take a break and relax
- Meditation is among the most underappreciated self-therapies. Using thoughtful meditation techniques to deal with anxiety has produced excellent outcomes in the past. When confronted with a crisis, it might be not easy to maintain concentration. Mediation assists you in being calm and making sound judgments.
- A way to cope with stress is to engage in a recreational activity or hobby. Although it is evident that the UPSC syllabus takes a long time to cover, you must approach it with a fresh perspective.
- Depression is a prevalent but devastating illness that leaves sufferers feeling hopeless and powerless, cut off from the rest of the world. A doctor can assist in providing the most acceptable treatment possible. Antidepressants and psychotherapy work better for some people. It is critical to get expert counseling.
These were some ways for dealing with mental health difficulties during UPSC Preparation. One will never taste success in life if they have doubts and questions about their talents. Clearing the IAS test requires more than just knowledge. The recruitment procedure is designed to put one’s endurance and discipline to the test over the course of two years, and motivation is required. Emotional stability is essential for staying sane during this procedure and also for enjoying it. As a psychological state, mental stability is tied to psychology. The overall functioning will be handled if your mental stability is under control.
