The
preparation for JEE is not an easy one. Studies and stress go hand in hand when
it comes to the entrance exam prep. Career Point at Kota, Rajasthan, organised
a seminar for the students on keeping stress at bay and improving their mental
health. The speakers for this event were Dr. Vijay Sardana a leading
Neurologist of Kota and also the Superintendent of Maharao Bhim Singh Hospital
of Kota.

Like our body, the mind too needs to be exercised. And this is possible through reading books, and poems, solving puzzles, crosswords, and quizzes too. Dr. Sardana stressed on the importance of taking up challenging tasks to ensure that the brain will also be healthy. But it’s not only challenges, relaxation too is very vital when it comes to keeping the mind fit.

Dr. Sardana was questioned by the students, on a wide range of issues. The dilemma that most students face was one of the first questions asked- the ideal time to study: Morning or night? “The perfect time is what the student feels comfortable with. One can study late in the night or early morning, but should sleep for at least 7 hours. Then there are no issues,” he said. He added that the students must refrain from changing their study patterns frequently. This will eventually affect the health and also the efficiency in finishing studies.

Dr.
Sardana stressed on the significance of a short nap for brain health. “If one
studies for long time and then takes a short nap of 15 to 30 minutes it
rejuvenates the person and enhances efficiency.”  

When
some students questioned about listening to music while studying, Dr. Vijay
Sardana said that studying requires tremendous concentration and music would be
a distracting aspect. If a student cannot concentrate then they might not be
able to perform well. However, he said that there would be few geniuses who can
study while playing music in the background.

“Good
Physical health is linked to Good Brain health, which is important for not only
students but everyone. People should spare time for exercise,” he said.

The
other most important aspect highlighted by Dr Sardana was socializing with
people. Dr. Sardana said that socializing helps in exchange of views and
activation of the mind. When asked about the use of social networking sites for
that matter, he said that social networking sites can also be a tool for socializing
but instead of virtual world, socializing in person can be more beneficial.

The incidents
of depression and suicides committed by students in the coaching capital of
Kota have been on the rise. The best way to tackle depression was by providing
the students with counselling. He said that the student with suicidal
tendencies should not be left alone and should be guided as soon as possible.

The
seminar was held by the Neurology Care and Research
Foundation, Kota whose President, Dr Anshu Sardana and Secretary, Dr Sushil
Soni were also present, along with Directors of Career Point Institute, Kota,
Om Maheshwari and Shailendra Maheshwari.