Sadag provides emotional support for matric pupils amid results anxiety

AS THE anticipation builds among matric pupils across South Africa, who are set to receive their final examination results next week, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) is emphasising the importance of maintaining emotional wellbeing during this stressful period.

Each year, this time is marked by significant pressure, not only from the impending results but also from the expectations of family, friends, and social media.

"For many young people, the matric results are seen as a once-in-a-lifetime judgement of their ability, intelligence, and future,” says Sadag Project Manager for Education, Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha.

“It becomes a national event filled with pressure from family, teachers, peers, and even social media. When results are tied to shame, disappointment, or fear of letting others down, Anxiety can easily turn into feelings of hopelessness.”

Historically, Sadag has witnessed a surge in calls from pupils and parents grappling with the anxiety and uncertainty that this period brings. With an already intense year of studying and examinations behind them, the emotional toll is particularly concerning for these young individuals.

To counter this, Sadag stands ready to support pupils, parents, and teachers before, during, and after results day. In the days leading up to the release, their professional counsellors are available to offer a listening ear to those feeling overwhelmed or anxious. On the day of results, Sadag's Toll-Free 24-hour Helplines and WhatsApp chat will be operational, providing immediate guidance and reassurance. Furthermore, in the subsequent days and weeks, the organisation will continue to assist pupils and their families in processing emotions and exploring pathways forward, including options for re-marking, rewriting, or pursuing alternative educational routes.

To facilitate this support, Sadag has introduced a new Matric Results Online Toolkit, accessible through their website at www.sadag.org. This free digital toolkit is designed to aid young people in navigating the emotions and decisions associated with results day. Users will find informative videos, digestible articles, and practical mental health brochures outlining strategies to manage anxiety, prepare emotionally, and calmly chart next steps.

Sadag encourages pupils to:

• Prepare emotionally for results day by determining in advance who they will talk to and where they would like to be, regardless of the outcome.
• Understand that results do not define self-worth: their marks are not a measure of personal value.
• Limit exposure to social media to avoid detrimental comparisons and pressure.
• Plan for diverse outcomes because several alternative pathways to success exist, such as bridging courses and TVET colleges.
• Reach out for assistance early, speaking with a parent, teacher, friend, or counsellor if anxiety becomes overwhelming.
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Counselling psychologist Dylan Benyon reinforced this message, stating: “For parents and teachers, the best thing you can do right now is to simply say, ‘I’m here for you.’ Offer your support without pressure and remind pupils that the anxiety they feel is completely normal. Celebrate their efforts, not solely the outcome, as hard work and resilience hold more significance than a singular grade.”

Sadag’s mission is clear: to offer free, confidential, and around-the-clock support for pupils, parents, and teachers throughout the nation. Trained counsellors are available at any time to provide practical next steps and emotional support:

• Telephone: 0800 567 567 (available 24/7)
• WhatsApp Chat: 087 163 2030 (8am – 5pm)
• SMS “Help” to: 31393 and a Counsellor will call you back

“We want young people to recognise that there is always help and hope,” added Parbhoo-Seetha.

“If you're feeling anxious or afraid, speak out early. You don’t have to wait for a crisis. There is support available, ready to listen and assist you in finding your path forward.”

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