Cape Town - As the matric examinations conclude today, many pupils will be celebrating the end of what was probably one of the most stressful assessment periods of their young lives.
After the reality of the long wait sets in, many may be overcome with anxiety until the day results are released.
According to Glynis Depper, counselling consultant at LifeLine Western Cape, parents should be supportive of their children who had completed their Grade 12 examinations, even if they did not necessarily know how to handle their behaviour changes as they anxiously awaited their results.
“Matrics should not become all-consumed with their anxiety and let their nerves get the better of them because the reality is there is nothing they can do until they get their marks,” she said. “If the anxiety becomes too much, the pupil should speak to someone who understands them - if not a friend or family member, then a counsellor who can help them express what they are feeling.”
Cape Mental Health spokesperson Dylan Oktober said that being in nature, coupled with an activity like hiking or swimming, could
have a calming effect on stressed students
According to Umalusi (council for quality assurance) spokesperson Lucky Ditaunyane, national senior certificate results would be released on January 8, with Independent Examinations Board results released on January6.
Western Cape Education Department spokesperson Bronagh Hammond said there were alternative options for students who did not do well, such as supplementary exams and the option to have their marks checked or papers remarked.
Anyone in need of counselling services can call the Safe Schools hotline at 080 045 4647.
@TheCapeArgus