Mental Health Status of JEE and NEET Aspirant Students of Higher Secondary Education in Kota, Rajasthan: A Study

This research examines the mental well-being of secondary school students in Kota, Rajasthan, who are preparing for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) or the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET) alongside their regular studies. Kota, a major hub for competitive exam coaching, draws thousands of candidates each year into a highly demanding academic environment that can contribute to psychological strain, social isolation, and emotional fatigue. Adopting a mixed-method design, the study integrates quantitative assessments of mental health indicators with qualitative insights from student interviews. Results indicate high rates of stress, anxiety, disrupted sleep, and performance-related pressures. A statistically significant difference was observed between JEE and NEET candidates with respect to anxiety levels, and a strong positive correlation emerged between academic stress and anxiety. The paper concludes with recommendations for institutional and psychological support measures to address these concerns.