Komal Waqar
In Pakistani universities, it is common to see students sitting quietly in classrooms while their minds are somewhere else. They attend lectures, take notes, and complete assignments, yet many of them feel deeply tired by the end of the day. This tiredness does not come from physical labour or long hours of manual work. Instead, it comes from constant thinking, worrying, and pressure. Many students feel exhausted even on days when they have not done anything physically demanding. This silent exhaustion has become a normal part of student life in Pakistan.
Mental tiredness is difficult to see, but it is easy to feel. It is the kind of tiredness that does not go away with sleep alone. It means overthinking small matters, replaying conversations in the mind, and constantly worrying about what comes next. Many students feel restless even during rest. Their minds remain busy with thoughts about exams, grades, deadlines, and expectations. Even while trying to relax, their thoughts continue to race, leaving them feeling drained without doing much physical work.
Academic pressure is one of the biggest reasons behind this mental exhaustion. Pakistani students face a continuous cycle of quizzes, assignments, presentations, midterms, and final exams. There is little time to pause or recover between assessments. The syllabus often feels heavy, and students are expected to perform well in every subject. For many, studying never feels complete. There is always another topic to revise or another test to prepare for. This constant pressure keeps the mind active at all times, leaving little space for mental rest.
Fear of failure adds another layer to this pressure. Many students are afraid of disappointing their families, teachers, or even themselves. Grades are often treated as a measure of intelligence and worth. A single low result can affect confidence and self-esteem. This fear forces students to remain alert and anxious even outside academic hours. As a result, the mind rarely feels free or relaxed, which slowly leads to mental fatigue.
Family expectations also play a strong role in students’ mental tiredness. In many Pakistani households, education is seen as the only path to success and financial stability. Parents often remind students of the sacrifices made for their education. While this support comes from good intentions, it can create a heavy sense of responsibility. Students begin to feel that failure is not an option. Comparisons with cousins, neighbours, or family friends are common and often unintentional. Simple comments about someone else’s achievements can increase self-doubt and stress.
Instead of feeling relaxed at home, many students continue to feel pressure there as well. Home, which should be a place of comfort, becomes another space where expectations exist. Students feel the need to constantly prove that they are working hard and moving forward. This ongoing pressure makes it difficult for the mind to truly rest, adding to mental exhaustion.
Social media has further increased this mental burden. Platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok are filled with stories of success, productivity, and achievement. Students constantly see others showcasing skills, internships, businesses, and academic milestones. These posts often show only the highlights, not the struggles behind them. However, when students compare their own journeys with these online images, they begin to feel late or left behind.
This comparison creates a sense of urgency. Students feel that they should be doing more, achieving more, and moving faster. Even rest starts to feel unproductive. Many students feel guilty for taking breaks, believing that they are wasting time. As a result, mental pressure increases, and relaxation becomes difficult. The mind remains active, even during moments meant for rest.
Another major factor behind mental tiredness is uncertainty about the future. Many Pakistani students worry about job opportunities, financial stability, and whether their degrees will truly help them succeed. Rising inflation, limited employment options, and frequent changes in economic conditions increase anxiety. Students often question whether their hard work will pay off. This uncertainty stays in the background of their minds, creating constant tension and worry.
Mental tiredness should not be confused with laziness or lack of motivation. Most students genuinely want to succeed and are willing to work hard. However, when pressure comes from academics, family, society, and social media all at once, the mind becomes overloaded. Without proper mental rest, this exhaustion affects focus, creativity, and confidence. Over time, students may feel disconnected, demotivated, or emotionally drained.
It is important for society to recognize that mental tiredness is real and serious. Educational institutions should encourage balance instead of constant pressure. Families should offer understanding rather than comparisons. Students need reassurance that rest is not a weakness but a necessity. Mental health support, open conversations, and realistic expectations can help reduce this silent burden.
In the end, a healthy mind is just as important as academic success. If we want students to learn better, perform better, and contribute positively to society, we must first understand the invisible mental load they carry every day. A generation that is mentally supported will be stronger, more confident, and better prepared for the future.
Komal Waqar is
Student of BS-Media and communication studies 6th semester, National University of Modern languages Rawalpindi
