Health Gain Reviews

Sixteen-year-old Rakesh (name changed), who was preparing for his plus two board exams, approached a psychiatrist complaining that his father was pressuring him to prepare for three competitive exams at the same time and that he could not concentrate. The psychiatrist counselled both the boy and his parents, asking them not to exert pressure on him till he completed his school exams.
Doctors point out that pressure from anxious parents and teachers on their wards to perform well in exams can at times lead to students, even bright ones, losing focus on studies. “Parents put more pressure on their children, even if they are brilliant in academics to score full marks. It is best that they leave the students to concentrate on studies and give them confidence. At the same time, they should also supervise their children without making any verbal demands,” says Dr Anand Prathap, psychiatrist, Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital.

Light Food

While it is the time for attending continuous rounds of model exams in schools, medical experts advise that students preparing for board exams should also find time for relaxation and enough sleep. Overworking could lead not just to sleep deprivation, but also anxiousness, exam phobia, palpitation and a fear of failure. A 30-minute walk in the evening, listening to music or playing a game could help relax the mind and focus better.


Students should also not study just one subject the whole day. They should study at least three subjects for two hours each, giving a 15-minute interval gap between them. It is very important that students have a positive mindset while preparing for exams,” the doctor adds.

Indian Food

While keeping the mind stress-free is important, physically fitness should also be given priority. Memory boosters and immunity-boosters, including proper iron levels in the body go a long way in helping to stay focused. “If a student becomes anemic, it can result in lack of concentration. So, it is important that they take enough iron-rich food along with protein and Vitamin C-rich food for the absorption of iron in the body,” says nutritionist Dr Meenakshi Bajaj.

The nutritionist adds that electrolytes like sodium and potassium and food with omega three fatty acids like sundal, almonds, fish, walnuts and pumpkin seeds are vital for a good metabolism. “Sometimes, a student might be studying the whole day, forgetting to drinking water. Keeping hydrated is very important,” she adds.