A Study on Mental Health of Primary Students in Relation to Their Academic Achievement and Co-curricular Activities

Mental health plays a crucial role in shaping the overall development of primary school children. The present study aims to explore the relationship between mental health and academic as well as Co-curricular Activities among primary school students. The study was conducted in Paschim Medinipur district, focusing on Bengali medium government primary schools located in both rural and urban areas. A descriptive survey method was adopted for the study. A sample of 120 students was selected using a stratified random sampling technique, ensuring representation from both rural and urban settings. Standardised tools and self-structured questionnaires were used to assess students’ mental health status, academic achievement (based on school records), and co-curricular participation levels. The findings indicate a significant positive correlation between mental health and academic achievement, suggesting that students with better emotional stability and psychological well-being tend to perform better academically. Similarly, co-curricular activities were found to have a positive impact on mental health, enhancing confidence, social skills, and emotional balance. The study also highlights differences between rural and urban students in terms of access to co-curricular opportunities and mental health support. Urban students showed comparatively better exposure to structured co-curricular activities, while rural students demonstrated resilience but lacked institutional support. The research underscores the importance of integrating mental health awareness and co-curricular engagement into primary education. It recommends that teachers, parents, and policymakers collaboratively work to create a supportive and inclusive environment for children. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on child psychology and education, emphasising the need for holistic development in early schooling.