Tuesday, 30 January 2024 | PNS | DEHRADUN
In order to combat stress and drowsiness experienced during examinations, the students have been resorting to increased consumption of coffee. Several parents have reported that their children have started consuming higher amounts of coffee and tea than they do normally with examinations drawing near as a means to manage stress, anxiety and also to overcome tiredness. Experts have, however, pointed out warningly that as coffee contains caffeine it can potentially exacerbate anxiety among children.
“My son, who is in class 10th, will be facing his first board examination in February. The pressure and anxiety coupled with fear and uncertainty have taken a toll on his mental well-being, prodding him to an increased intake of coffee. Though we know that consuming coffee in high amounts may impact health adversely, we do not ask him to reduce its consumption because the intake seems to be helping him reduce stress,” said a parent, Bindu Narula.
Another parent Priyanka Jain sounded concerned over the heightened stress and anxiety being experienced by her daughter ahead of the board examination. “These academic pressures are affecting her overall health gravely. Her eating habits have become erratic, leading to irregular meal times and increased consumption of coffee and tea along with spicy foods,” she added.
Asked whether he is feeling stressed ahead of the board examination, a class X student Akarsh Verma answered in the affirmative. “Of course, I am worried and not unduly so as this is the first important exam I am facing. Anxiety spawns tiredness and I feel sleepy when I try to concentrate on my studies. To ward off sleepiness, I consume coffee and tea. This helps me stay awake late into the night,” he added.
Commenting on the matter, Dehradun-based dietician, Dr Sanjana Matta said that consumption of coffee and tea negatively impacts children. “This aggravates their anxiety and stress due to their high caffeine content. In addition, excessive coffee consumption can lead to deficiencies in iron and calcium. Plus, it may trigger depression. A more beneficial alternative would be increased water intake by adding mint leaves in it. Instead of drinking coffee, they should take apples as apples contain things that help reduce stress. And for the students preparing for board examinations, I recommend light meals to improve concentration levels. Roasted paneer and puffed rice can also be favorable options during this stressful period,” said Matta
