\n\t\tSADAG highlights how parents and guardians can support pupils when results fall short.\n\t<\/p>\n
As the release of the 2025 matric results draws closer, anxiety levels among pupils and their families are reaching a tipping point, with mental health experts warning that the waiting period itself can be more distressing than the results.<\/p>\n
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) has acknowledged the emotional strain facing thousands of matriculants.<\/p>\n
Speaking to The Citizen, SADAG project manager for education, Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha, said the uncertainty surrounding results can feel overwhelming for young people who believe their entire future hinges on a single set of marks.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt this stage, it\u2019s completely understandable that many pupils and their families are feeling anxious,\u201d said Parbhoo-Seetha. <\/p>\n
\u201cFor a lot of our young people, this waiting period can feel incredibly heavy, as though their whole future is resting on one set of results.\u201d<\/p>\n
Waiting period fuels distress<\/p>\n
Parbhoo-Seetha said pupils often struggle the most during the days leading up to results day, describing the anticipation as emotionally exhausting.<\/p>\n
\u201cFor pupils who are feeling anxious or overwhelmed while waiting for the results, that waiting can often feel worse than the results themselves,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
SADAG has encouraged pupils to take the following practical steps to manage their anxiety:<\/p>\n
Maintaining daily routines<\/p>\n
Limiting the time spent checking social media<\/p>\n
Avoid isolation<\/p>\n
Talk to someone you trust<\/p>\n
Take breaks<\/p>\n
\u201cOur advice is to take one day at a time and try not to sit with the anxiety on your own,\u201d Parbhoo-Seetha said. <\/p>\n
She emphasised that matric results do not determine a person\u2019s worth or future success.<\/p>\n
\u201cMost importantly, remember that your matric results do not define who you are or what you\u2019re capable of. This is just one chapter, not the whole story.\u201d<\/p>\n
Parents urged to respond with empathy<\/p>\n
SADAG has also highlighted the critical role parents and guardians play, particularly when pupils do not achieve the results they were hoping for.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe first response from a parent really, really matters, even when you\u2019re worried or disappointed,\u201d Parbhoo-Seetha said. \u201cWhat your child needs most is to feel safe and supported.\u201d<\/p>\n
She urged parents to listen before offering solutions, to avoid comparisons with other pupils and to reassure children that love and support are not dependent on academic performance.<\/p>\n
\u201cOnce emotions are settled, you can explore the next steps together,\u201d she said. \u201cThere are always more options than it feels like in that moment.\u201d<\/p>\n
ALSO READ: Matric results: Regulator \u2018studying\u2019 court ruling on publication in newspapers\u00a0<\/a><\/p>\n Warning signs not to ignore<\/p>\n Families have been advised to remain alert to changes in behaviour that may indicate a pupil is struggling.<\/p>\n Changes in behaviour are often the biggest clue, <\/p>\n Withdrawing from others, <\/p>\n big changes in mood, <\/p>\n Loss or increase in sleep or appetite, <\/p>\n Feeling hopeless or <\/p>\n Suddenly seeming fine after being very upset<\/p>\n She stressed that any talk of self-harm or wanting to disappear should be treated as an emergency.<\/p>\n \u201cAny talk about feeling like a burden or self-harm should always be taken seriously and acted on immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n