top of page

Supporting Youth and Student Mental Health: Key Challenges and Solutions

Writer's picture: Devinder Pal SinghDevinder Pal Singh


In today’s competitive and fast-paced world, mental health issues among youth and students are becoming increasingly prevalent. From academic pressures to dealing with homesickness while studying abroad, students face a unique set of challenges that need urgent attention. Particularly in Punjab and its diaspora, many young people are seeking answers and support to navigate these mental health challenges effectively. In this blog, we explore some common questions around youth and student mental health and highlight the support systems that can help.


1. How Can Students Manage Stress and Anxiety During Exams?

Academic pressure is one of the most significant contributors to stress and anxiety among students. This is especially true in states like Punjab, where there is a strong focus on excelling in competitive exams for admissions into prestigious courses like engineering and medicine. The fear of failure, parental expectations, and peer pressure can overwhelm students during exam time, leading to heightened stress.


Tips to Manage Exam Stress:

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: Regular meditation can help students calm their minds and stay focused.

  • Structured Study Plans: Breaking study tasks into manageable chunks can reduce feelings of panic.

  • Physical Activity: Regular exercise helps improve mental clarity and reduces anxiety.

  • Seek Counseling: Many educational institutions now offer counseling services, where students can discuss their concerns and learn techniques to cope with exam stress.


2. What Mental Health Support Is Available for Students Studying Abroad, Especially in Canada?

Canada has become a popular destination for students from Punjab, but the challenges of adapting to a new country often lead to homesickness, isolation, and even financial stress. The cultural shift, the pressure to succeed, and the absence of close family members can exacerbate feelings of loneliness and anxiety.


Support Systems for International Students:

  • University Counseling Services: Most Canadian universities provide free mental health counseling to help international students manage their stress and homesickness.

  • Community Support: Immigrant and student organizations offer social support and provide a sense of belonging.

  • Online Therapy Platforms: For students who may feel more comfortable with therapists from their home country, online counseling platforms like BetterHelp and Talkspace offer professional mental health services in multiple languages.

  • Culturally Sensitive Counselors: Some universities have counselors who specialize in working with South Asian students, ensuring that students receive culturally relevant support.


3. How Can Young People Deal With the Emotional Strain of Unemployment?

Youth unemployment is a significant issue, especially in Punjab, where many young adults struggle to find employment after graduation. Those who migrate to countries like Canada often face underemployment, as their qualifications may not align with local job markets. This financial instability can lead to feelings of inadequacy, depression, and anxiety.


Ways to Cope With Unemployment Stress:

  • Skill Development: Consider enrolling in online courses or certifications that can bridge gaps in the job market.

  • Networking: Attend career fairs, join professional networks, and use platforms like LinkedIn to expand job opportunities.

  • Volunteer Work: Volunteering can provide a sense of purpose and also help build a resume while waiting for job opportunities.

  • Seek Counseling: Therapy can be a useful tool for managing the emotional toll that unemployment takes, offering strategies to improve mental health.


4. What Should I Do If I Feel Homesick or Isolated as an International Student?

Homesickness and feelings of isolation are common experiences for international students. Living far from home, in a completely new environment, often exacerbates stress and loneliness. For many Punjabi students, this is made worse by the pressure of succeeding academically to meet family expectations.


Strategies to Combat Homesickness:

  • Stay Connected: Regularly video call family and friends to maintain strong social ties.

  • Join Campus Clubs: Participating in student clubs, cultural associations, and other university activities can help build new relationships.

  • Explore Cultural Groups: Many universities have South Asian student groups where individuals from similar backgrounds can meet and share experiences.

  • Seek Professional Help: If homesickness becomes overwhelming, seek support from the university’s counseling center. Many services are confidential and designed to help students adjust to their new environment.


5. Are There Mental Health Services for Students Dealing With Career-Related Stress?

For many students, career-related stress is a significant source of anxiety, especially as they near graduation. The pressure to secure a job, meet family expectations, or decide on a career path can be overwhelming.


Available Career-Related Mental Health Services:

  • Career Counseling: Most universities have career centers that offer guidance on job search strategies and career planning. These centers can also help students manage stress related to their future careers.

  • Workshops and Seminars: Many institutions host workshops on stress management, resilience, and mental wellness that are tailored to help students prepare for the job market.

  • Mentorship Programs: Finding a mentor can provide guidance, emotional support, and insights into the industry, helping students navigate career decisions with less anxiety.

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT is an effective form of therapy that helps individuals reframe negative thoughts, especially those related to career uncertainty. It encourages a more positive and constructive approach to handling career-related stress.


Conclusion: Addressing Youth and Student Mental Health

Mental health challenges among students are a growing concern worldwide. Whether it’s dealing with exam stress, coping with unemployment, or navigating life as an international student, it’s crucial for young people to have access to appropriate mental health support. Resources such as counseling services, skill-building programs, and community support can make a significant difference in their mental well-being.

Institutions like Dr. Devinder’s Hospital and Clinic in Punjab are at the forefront of addressing these mental health challenges, offering a wide range of services both in-person and online. With programs specifically designed for youth, including stress management techniques, telehealth services, and culturally sensitive counseling, Dr. Devinder’s clinic is a valuable resource for students both in India and abroad.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Mental health is just as important as physical health, and seeking support is a vital first step toward well-being.


Contact Dr. Devinder’s Hospital and Clinic:

  • Website: Harmeet Sham Wellness

  • Email: harmeetshawellness@gmail.com

  • Phone: +91-98726-70403

  • Address: Harmeet | Sham Neuropsychiatry & De-addiction Clinic and Hospital

    SCO 307, 308, Triangular market, Sector 118 TDI Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab 140501

  • House No 14, Sector 19-A, Chandigarh 160019


Remember: It’s okay to ask for help.

........................................................


  • How can I manage exam stress effectively?

  • What are the best ways for students to reduce anxiety during exams?

  • How can international students deal with homesickness in Canada?

  • What mental health resources are available for students studying abroad?

  • How can students from Punjab cope with loneliness abroad?

  • What support is available for Punjabi immigrants struggling with mental health in Canada?

  • How can young people in Punjab deal with unemployment-related stress?

  • What is the impact of academic pressure on mental health?

  • How can I balance academic success and mental health?

  • Are there free mental health counseling services for students in Canada?

  • How can students manage career-related stress and anxiety?

  • What are the symptoms of homesickness and how can I manage them?

  • Where can I find online therapy for students in India?

  • What mental health services are offered by Dr. Devinder’s Hospital and Clinic?

  • How can I find culturally sensitive counselors for Punjabi students abroad?

  • How does mindfulness help students cope with academic stress?

  • What mental health challenges do Punjabi immigrants face in Canada?

  • How can CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) help with career anxiety?

  • How can students improve their mental health during competitive exams?

  • What should I do if I feel isolated as an international student?

  • What are the mental health risks of unemployment for youth?

  • What role does cultural identity play in immigrant mental health?

  • How can I help my child manage academic pressure?

  • What are some good strategies to reduce stress for students?

  • How can Punjabi students in Canada access mental health support?

6 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Comments


© 2023 by Dr. Devinder Pal Singh

SCO 307, 308, Triangular market, Sector 118 TDI Mohali, Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, Punjab 140501

Tel: 98726-70403

  • White Facebook Icon
  • Facebook
bottom of page