Tambaram has long been known as an educational hub. With institutions like Madras Christian College (MCC), S.D.N.B. Vaishnav College for Women, Vels University, Sri Sairam Engineering College, and Annai Veilankanni’s College, the area attracts thousands of students from across Tamil Nadu—and beyond.

From school students preparing for NEET or JEE, to undergraduates navigating hostel life, career uncertainty, and emotional independence—student life in Tambaram is full of promise… but also pressure.

Why Student Mental Health Needs Our Attention

In India, academic success is often equated with personal worth. Many students carry the invisible burden of expectations—from family, teachers, peers, and society.

Here in Tambaram, the academic competition is real. Coaching centres run till late, entrance exams loom large, and hostel life—though exciting—can also be isolating.

Many students experience:

• Persistent anxiety and overthinking

• Low motivation, despite high potential

• Panic attacks before exams

• Sleep disturbances and fatigue

• Social withdrawal or irritability

• Thoughts of hopelessness or failure

What makes this more complex is that these symptoms are often brushed off as laziness or immaturity—when in reality, they may be signs of clinical anxiety, depression, or adjustment difficulties.

A Shift in Awareness

Institutions like MCC and Vaishnav College have taken early steps to address student well-being. There’s growing awareness of the need for mental health support services on campuses.

But the demand is much greater than the current availability—especially in a high-density student zone like Tambaram.

That’s why community-based mental health services play a key role.

When Should You Seek Help?

If you’re a student—or a parent—watch out for:

• Sudden drop in academic performance

• Avoidance of friends or classes

• Disturbed sleep or appetite

• Frequent headaches or fatigue

• Expressions of feeling “stuck,” “pointless,” or “empty”

• Talk of self-harm or not wanting to continue

Many students benefit from early intervention—be it through talk therapy, coping strategies, or in some cases, medication.

A Safe, Supportive Space for Students in Tambaram

As a psychiatrist based at Apollo Clinic, East Tambaram, I work with students from institutions across this region—including MCC, Vels, Sri Sairam, Vaishnav, and nearby schools and PU colleges.

My approach is to:

• Listen without judgment

• Work in partnership with families and teachers when appropriate

• Provide therapy-focused, non-invasive interventions

• Help students build resilience, self-esteem, and emotional balance

Whether it’s exam stress, social anxiety, relationship struggles, or attention issues like ADHD, we aim to support students not just in surviving, but thriving.

Final Thoughts

Tambaram isn’t just an academic destination—it’s also a place where students come of age. And as we focus on excellence in education, we must also create space for emotional well-being.

A generation that feels supported is a generation that performs better, lives better, and contributes more.

🧠 Mental health support for students and young adults:
Dr. Srinivas Rajkumar T, MD (AIIMS, New Delhi)
Psychiatrist | Adolescent Mental Health | Therapy & Life Skills
📍 Apollo Clinic, 3, Bharathamadha Street, Opp. to MCC Campus, East Tambaram, Chennai – 600059
📞 Call/WhatsApp: 8595155808