The Impact of Stress on the Mental Health and Academic Performance of OL and AL Students in Sri Lanka Amidst the Educational Pressures and Societal Expectations

This study examines the correlation between academic stress and its impact on the mental health and academic achievement of students undergoing the O/L and A/L examination systems in Sri Lanka. The initiative arises from a wider interest of how structural and societal factors influence the internal experiences of students during a critical developmental phase. The research reveals patterns of anxiety, emotional exhaustion, and academic deterioration, utilizing both quantitative data and qualitative insights, which frequently remain overlooked in performance-oriented institutions. The findings suggest that although stress is not inherently detrimental, its unregulated manifestations—particularly those stemming from institutional inequality or emotional neglect—can significantly hinder both learning and personal growth. This study advocates for a more empathetic educational paradigm that stresses academic success while acknowledging the psychological toll of achievement. The initiative finishes by offering pragmatic recommendations to assist educators and politicians in establishing environments where success does not compromise mental health.