Chinese High School Students Suffer Under Crushing Academic Burden in Shanghai and Beijing
Published on 5.28.25
Mental health concerns are escalating among Chinese high school students due to the intense academic pressure and long study hours they face. Liu Changming, a former principal and education expert, has highlighted this issue, citing alarming statistics from a 2023 mental health report by CCTV. The report reveals that over 40% of high school students in China experience depression.
This trend is not limited to one region or institution; it's a widespread problem affecting students across the country. A recent study published in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that students in Shanghai and Beijing reported higher rates of anxiety and depression compared to their peers, attributing this disparity to the high-stakes exam system and emphasis on academic achievement.
Many students are sacrificing sleep, exercise, and social activities to keep up with their studies. According to a report by the Chinese Society of Education, 70% of high school students in China get less than eight hours of sleep per night, exacerbating mental health issues. This is particularly concerning given that adequate sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall well-being.
The situation has prompted calls for reform from experts like Liu Changming, who advocate for a more balanced approach to education that prioritizes students' physical and mental health alongside academic achievement.