The matric class of 2024 has had a tumultuous school journey – it has included the coronavirus pandemic, schooling from home, then being reintegrated into in-person education.
At the same time, technology has become a major part of learning, and social media has amplified the opportunities, as well as the challenges of young people’s lives. Add to that the uncertainty of choosing a career and securing work or a place at a tertiary institution, and finishing school can become a highly stressful experience for some, experts at Life Healthcare said.
“As this year’s matriculants prepare to get their final results, they stand on the threshold of an exciting, but challenging stage of their lives: adulthood. It represents freedom, but at the same time, a whole new set of responsibilities – bills, relationships, work and community involvement and the pressure of succeeding as adults,” Life Healthcare said.
“This whirlwind of change has the potential to affect mental-health and well-being, particularly if expectations of matric results and the next steps in their adult journey are not met, placing much pressure on them and how they believe society, family or friends will perceive their outcomes. For some this could lead to unmanaged stress, depression or in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts or even suicide.”
The 2023 U-report poll by the United Nations Children’s Fund (Unicef) found that 60% of children and youth felt they needed mental health support over the previous year.
In the same poll, 48% of young respondents said they were most anxious about the need to build their skills for future employment.
According to Life Healthcare, 9.5% of teen deaths in South Africa are due to suicide. A third of all hospital admissions for suicide attempts involve teenagers.
Ruvé Esterhuysen, a clinical psychologist based at the Life Poortview, said if not addressed, teenagers’ mental-health problems can worsen, leading to suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts and even the loss of life.
“There must be no stigma around seeking that help. People who reach out to friends, family and professionals are showing responsible behaviour,” Esterhuysen said.
Panic attacks and increases in unhealthy substance use are warning signs to look out for, as well as para-suicide. Para-suicide is a cry for help, also known as a suicidal gesture, where the goal is not to kill oneself.
“Matrics and school leavers are embarking on a new phase of life,” said Esterhuysen. “It’s an exciting time, but many South African youth have few employment prospects, they lack social groups, and they are still learning life skills.”
She recommends that families be proactive about managing mental health.
“We all need hobbies, and extra-mural activities. We need family and friends for support. Loneliness affects mental health – especially for teenagers, who may find it hard to communicate with peers, and may feel ashamed about mental health due to stigma.”
Esterhuysen highlighted mental-health red flags to look out for including:
– Major changes in emotions and in behaviour
– Becoming sensitive to rejection, failure or critique
– Lack of interest in activities they previously enjoyed
– Isolating in their room or avoiding contact
– Low self-esteem, self-blame, guilt or self-loathing
– Sleep disorders
– Changes in appetite
– Restlessness or slow motor movements
– Headaches, joint, or muscle pain
– Poor personal hygiene
– Worsening academic performance
– Talking about death
– Worrying social media posts
– Alcohol or drug use
– Self-harm
“For a teen matriculant about to enter further studies or the workforce, and who has expressed the pressure of this phase of life as being too much, or whose behaviour has changed, it’s important that parents and friends are aware of the signs of depression. Most importantly parents, family and friends should simply be there for them and show that they care. Let them know that school results, or not landing the right job are not the only thing that matters in life. Discuss the various future options and opportunities they have. Schedule activities that you can enjoy together.”
The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) extended its support to help parents, caregivers, and matrics navigate what can be an exceptionally stressful time ahead of the release of their results on Tuesday.
Emotions are naturally running high, Sadag said, and for many learners and their families, this period is marked by excitement, pressure, happiness, and hopefulness, but on the other hand, also brings feelings of uncertainty, hopelessness, despair, and dread.
Sadag said that parents, caregivers and friends play a vital role in providing emotional support. Criticism or high expectations can increase anxiety, instead the focus should be on nurturing, understanding the child’s feelings, and being a supportive presence during this time.
SADAG Board Vice Chairperson and Clinical Psychologist Zamo Mbele said: "A big congrats to everyone for making it this far - that’s a win on its own. If you smashed it, take a moment to celebrate and keep levelling up. If things didn’t go as planned, don’t sweat it - this isn’t the end. Learn from it, bounce back, and keep pushing forward. This is just one chapter in your story - there’s so much more to come.”
Sadag will be sharing tips on how to start important conversations before the results are released, and share resources that are available. They can be joined today at 1pm for the 'Ask The Expert Facebook Live' with Counselling Psychologist Dylan Benyon, discussing "Matric Results and Mental Wellness - A Guide for Students and Parents."
Sadag is also hosting three Instagram Live sessions throughout the week of the 13th, and their weekly Matric Support Group has been active since Wednesday, providing advice, tips and support for Matriculants.
Those who feel overwhelmed, need advice, or simply want someone to talk to, SADAG’s toll-free 24/7 helplines are available to learners, parents, and caregivers.
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0800 567 567
Cipla Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789
Or visit www.sadag.org.
Cape Times