Mental Health and Well-being of Undergraduate Students in West Bengal: A Study in the Context of NEP 2020
Dr Chaitali Biswas
Researcher
Department of Education
University of Kalyani
Nadia, Kalyani, West Bengal
Pin-741235
Abstract
The mental health and well-being of undergraduate students have emerged as significant concerns in higher education, particularly in the post-pandemic era. The implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 emphasizes holistic and multidisciplinary education, student support systems, and emotional well-being. In this context, the present study investigates the mental health status of undergraduate students from Nadia and Birbhum districts of West Bengal. A sample of 300 students (150 from Nadia and 150 from Birbhum) was selected through stratified random sampling. A self-developed Mental Health and Well-being Questionnaire (MHWQ) consisting of 30 items on a five-point Likert scale was administered. Descriptive statistics and independent sample t-test were used for analysis.
Data analysis revealed moderate levels of stress and anxiety among students, with female students reporting comparatively higher stress levels. A significant difference was found between Nadia and Birbhum districts in overall well-being scores (t = 2.45, p < .05). The findings highlight the urgent need for structured counselling systems, peer mentoring, and well-being cells as recommended under NEP 2020. The study contributes to understanding regional variations in student mental health and offers practical implications for policy implementation in West Bengal’s higher education institutions.
Keywords: Mental Health, Well-being, Undergraduate Students, NEP 2020, West Bengal, Nadia, Birbhum, Quantitative Study
DOI link – https://doi.org/10.69758/GIMRJ/2602S02V14P012
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