Data Collection on Causal Links between Academic Stress and Increased Mental Health Issues

Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Education whether the Ministry collects data on the causal links between academic stress and increased mental health issues, including anxiety and depression, among children in both primary and secondary schools.

My response will also cover the matters raised in another question by Assoc Prof Razwana Begum Abdul Rahim which is scheduled for a subsequent Sitting. [Please refer to "Collection of Data on Causal Links between Academic Stress and Suicide Attempts by Students", Official Report, 7 August 2024, Vol 95, Issue 139, Written Answers to Questions for Oral Answer not Answered by End of Question Time section.]

Students may encounter some academic stress in the course of learning, as they attempt to understand concepts, solve problems, work with peers on projects, meet deadlines and take assessments and so on. By learning to manage and overcome such stresses, students grow in resilience and become more equipped to cope with other stressors in life and work. Educators monitor and provide timely support to help students overcome their challenges.

However, academic stress can also be driven by unrealistic expectations of academic performance that stem from self and others or the desire to outperform others. If such stresses become excessive and are left unmanaged, they can adversely affect the students’ mental well-being.

Student mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety, are typically not caused by academic stress alone, but are compounded by other factors, such as low self-esteem, relationship issues with parents and peers, or challenging life circumstances.

Similarly, the underlying causes of suicide are complex, typically involving multiple stressors and are not attributable to a single cause.

The Ministry of Education, schools and our Institutes of Higher Learning will continue to work closely with parents as we continue our efforts to strengthen students’ mental well-being and resilience and support those students who need more help. Ultimately, as a society, we must help our children discover and hone their strengths and interests. We should provide a nurturing environment for them to develop holistically and form healthy relationships. Then they will grow into confident adults capable of contributing their talents to the community.