New Delhi: Ever since the results of the Central Board for Secondary Education (CBSE) class 12 examinations were declared on Friday, its helplines have been flooded by students depressed by their abysmal show. The counsellors' advice has been not to take the results too hard.

Among the students seeking advice are those who have failed in one or two subjects, anxious to know about the career options available to them now.

"I got calls from students who were not satisfied with their marks and had lost their confidence. I had to counsel them and reinforce confidence in them. I also informed them about the career options and universities, in which they are still eligible to apply," CBSE counsellor and education officer B. Singh told sources.

"Low marks are not the end of life," he said.

Depression triggered by the poor results is a reality as the suicide by an unsuccessful candidate on Friday demonstrates. Amit Bansal of Noida took his life as he failed to get 33 percent in mathematics. The incident has also underscored the need of caution among the parents of the students.

Another counsellor Sangeeta Bhatia, who is the principal of New State Academy school, Pitampura, says she has also been busy counselling students who have scored below their expectations.

"I have received calls from worried parents and disheartened students who have not scored up to their expectations. I have suggested to them to send the exam papers for rechecking, though the chances for an increase in marks are very low," she said.

For counsellor P.C. Bose, a retired deputy director (Education), there has not been a moment's rest since Friday, when CBSE class 12 results for Delhi, Guwahati and Allahabad regions were declared.

"Ever since yesterday evening, I am getting calls from students who have failed in one or many subjects. A few of them were depressed but most of the students are facing it sportingly," Bose said.

"My advice to the students who have not scored up to their own expectations, is to send the papers for rechecking. Also, that there is no need for them to lose hope as a few Delhi University colleges have provision for compartment cases.

"Many students are calling to inquire about admissions in Delhi University. Also, since they now know their percentage, they want to inquire about the career options that are open to them," he added.

The CBSE helpline was launched on May 20 to help students overcome anxiety and stress after the board results. There are 18 helpline centres in India and three abroad - in Dubai, Doha (Qatar) and Kuwait. IANS