Social disruptions, family stress and digital distractions are adversely affecting students’ concentration and learning, said renowned psychiatrist and Padma Shri awardee C.R. Chandrashekhar.

He delivered a lecture titled “Obstacles of Mental Stress to Learning Among Students – Management and Solutions” at a seminar organised by Kuvempu Vidyaniketan in association with Karnataka Jnana Vijnana Samiti in Chikkamagaluru on Saturday.

Mr. Chandrashekhar advised students to cultivate positive habits, including regular physical exercise, meditation, disciplined study routines and healthy eating. He cautioned that dependence on junk food and instant gratification could increase vulnerability to health problems.

The psychiatrist expressed concern over the growing trend of student suicides linked to examination failures, describing it as a significant loss to the nation. He reminded students that individuals possess multiple talents and that academic achievement alone does not define success in life.

Physical, mental and spiritual well-being form the three pillars of a holistic and healthy life, he said. Fear, jealousy, inferiority complex, anxiety and unhealthy comparisons are mental barriers that erode individual health and happiness, he cautioned.

Citing the example of Abraham Lincoln, who faced numerous electoral defeats before becoming U.S. President, Mr. Chandrashekhar noted that many great achievers experienced significant failures early in their lives. He emphasised that perseverance and resilience are essential for success.

Mr. Chandrashekhar engaged with students’ queries, conducted a science quiz and distributed his authored books as prizes to the winners. K.C. Shankar, secretary of the school, and others attended the event. The school also hosted an exhibition of science books.