Cracking NEET-UG is hailed as the ultimate academic triumph in India - but what happens after the results are out? For many 2025 aspirants, the real challenge begins after the exam ends. Several toppers and high-rankers are now speaking out about post-NEET burnout- a mental and emotional exhaustion that hits once the goal is achieved.

From years of isolated study, relentless pressure, and parental expectations to now facing the daunting world of medical college, many students are experiencing a loss of direction and identity. "I studied for four years just for this one moment. Now that it’s over, I don’t know what to do with myself," says Riya Sharma, a NEET top-100 scorer.

Psychologists call it the "achievement vacuum", a state where high-performing students feel numb after years of purpose-driven routine suddenly ends. Experts say it's time we rethink how we treat success, and start supporting students beyond just the exam.

NEET may be over, but the mental journey isn’t.