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Student anxiety and stress are rising rapidly in India, with many youth feeling overwhelmed by academic pressure, competition and the constant hustle and bustle of digital life. in one Email interview with HT Digital, Professor Samadu Chhetri, Director of Yogananda School of Spirituality and Happiness at Shoolini UniversityThe student shares insights on the root causes of anxiety, the role of mindfulness and yoga, and how educational institutions can nurture academic growth as well as emotional well-being.
Stress and anxiety levels are increasing alarmingly among students in India. In your experience, what are the root causes of this growing mental health crisis?
The main issue lies in disconnection – from self, from others and from nature. Parents often put pressure on children to follow their expectations without understanding their individual capabilities. Our education system prioritizes marks over knowledge, comparison over creativity and competition over compassion. This, coupled with lack of sleep, poor diet, inactivity and minimal time in nature, makes students less resilient. As the happiest man on earth, Mathieu Ricard, says – be altruistic, stop comparing yourself and practice happiness for at least 15 minutes a day.
How can students develop emotional balance and happiness amid academic pressure, competition and digital distractions?
Self-awareness is the key. Students must learn to stop, breathe, and reflect – what I call the WAR method: willingness to understand, accept, and feel. Creating mindful moments during daily activities – entering class, eating, walking – grounds the mind in the present and helps reconnect with yourself.
What simple daily habits can help students stay focused and positive?
Start your day with reflection and a positive resolution such as “I will be calm today.” Exercise for at least 30 minutes, eat mindfully, and limit screen time. Before you go to sleep, write down one thing that made you happy, one that didn’t, and one that you’re grateful for. Small rituals like these build emotional strength and gratitude.
What role do yoga and mindfulness play in managing anxiety and improving focus in young people?
Yoga harmonizes the mind, breath and body, activating the parasympathetic system which calms anxiety. Mindful breathing balances emotions, while meditation rewires the brain, improving focus, compassion, and resilience. Harvard research in 2011 proved that meditation strengthens brain areas associated with calmness and clarity.
How can parents and teachers recognize the early signs of mental distress – and respond with sensitivity rather than judgment?
Mood changes, irritability, withdrawal or sleep problems are clear signs. Parents and teachers should listen deeply and respond with empathy – not with advice or criticism. Language like “I feel you” or “We will find a solution together” shows presence and compassion. Home and school should be safe places for emotional expression.
What can educational institutions do to prioritize emotional well-being as much as academic achievement?
NEP 2020 envisages prosperity in education. Institutions should integrate mindfulness, meditation and value-based education as core courses. They should make space for silence, counseling, and peer-support circles. The goal should be to nurture whole human beings – not just employable humans.
You have presented happiness programs globally. What best practices can Indian campuses adopt?
Start each class with a minute of silent silence. Train faculty in emotional literacy. Mix happiness courses across all subjects. Encourage nature immersion, community service and peer mentoring. Establish happiness laboratories to measure and promote happiness – When happiness becomes institutionalized, it becomes sustainable.
Many students associate success with marks and career. How can they redefine success in a more satisfying way?
True success lies in living happily with peace, purpose and compassion. A successful student must have emotional intelligence, serve others, live harmoniously with nature and realize his/her potential – marks are secondary to meaning.
What message would you like to share with students who may be silently struggling with loneliness, fear or self-doubt?
Dear students – you are not alone. Grades or social media don’t define your worth. Connect with your breathing, meditate, read inspiring books, and spend time in nature. As PM Modi said, “No matter how long the night is, the day will come.” Every storm makes you stronger – choose self-compassion instead of self-criticism and celebrate your unique light.
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