Yuva Yoddha's Mental Health Initiative in Lucknow Reassures Students: "You Are Not Defined By One Exam"
In a powerful display of community support, the Yuva Yoddha organization conducted a mental health awareness campaign on Tuesday at Hazratganj Metro Station in Lucknow, delivering a crucial message to students: "You are not defined by one exam." The event saw young volunteers actively engaging with students, emphasizing the importance of placing mental well-being on equal footing with academic achievements.
Addressing Academic Pressure and Emotional Strain
The campaign specifically targeted students who are preparing for various examinations, tackling the pervasive issues of anxiety, self-doubt, and emotional pressure that frequently accompany academic life. During the session, students openly shared their personal struggles, discussing topics such as:
- Overwhelming stress related to studies and performance
- Intense fear of failure and its consequences
- The heavy burden of family expectations and societal pressures
Anam Farooq, a student from City Montessori School, expressed her challenges, stating, "I am very indecisive and introverted. Academic pressure becomes very difficult for me to handle. Sometimes I can't keep up, and it becomes hectic to manage stress and concentration together." Another participant, Qais Ansari, added, "I feel completely puzzled during exams. I go through a lot of anxiety."
Expert Advice and Personal Insights from Yuva Yoddha Founder
In response to these heartfelt concerns, Anaika Pathak, the founder of Yuva Yoddha and a third-year BTech student at the University of Massachusetts in the United States, offered practical guidance. She advised students to cultivate self-trust and adopt manageable study habits. "Manage the syllabus in parts, trust your preparation and take breaks. The mind needs rest too. Don't overload yourself," she emphasized, highlighting the necessity of balance in academic pursuits.
The inspiration behind Yuva Yoddha stems from a deeply personal experience. Anaika recalled how the idea for the organization emerged during her time as a hospital volunteer, when a grieving family member posed a poignant question: why could the younger generation, with all its energy and potential, not contribute more to society? This moment served as the catalyst for establishing Yuva Yoddha, driving its mission to foster positive change.
Yuva Yoddha's Broader Impact and Guiding Philosophy
Since its inception in 2021, Yuva Yoddha has expanded its efforts beyond mental health awareness, actively working in several critical areas including:
- Women's health and hygiene initiatives
- Combating functional illiteracy through educational programs
- Promoting overall student well-being and resilience
The organization operates on a simple yet profound philosophy: "Give what you can and take what you need." This principle underscores its commitment to creating a supportive community where individuals can both contribute and seek assistance, fostering an environment of mutual aid and understanding.
This campaign in Lucknow not only provided immediate support to students but also reinforced the ongoing need for mental health advocacy in educational settings, encouraging a holistic approach to success that values emotional health as much as academic accomplishments.
