Waiting for your matric results? Here’s how to manage stress and anxiety
It's perfectly normal to feel stressed during this time.
Image: Liza Summer / Pexels
The countdown to the release of the National Senior Certificate results on January 13 is officially on, and the atmosphere in South African homes is shifting from holiday relaxation to a stressful waiting game.
If your heart starts racing every time someone mentions "the results," or if you find yourself unable to sit still, know that this is a completely natural reaction.
This period is a massive transition point in life, representing the culmination of twelve years of hard work.
It is perfectly normal to feel stressed when you are standing on the edge of your future, especially with the weight of expectations from family and the pressure of university placements hanging in the air.
Shift your focus during the wait
Step away from the "What ifs"
You might be playing back that Maths Paper or that tricky History essay in your head. It is important to realise that you cannot change a single mark now.
When your mind starts to spiral, bring yourself back to the present.
You are here, you are safe, and the results will come when they come.
Focusing on things you can control, like your hobbies or your daily routine, is a much better use of your mental energy.
Mute the noise
Social media is going to be flooded with countdowns and people bragging about how much they "definitely failed" while secretly hoping for distinctions.
If TikTok or Instagram is making your heart race, delete the apps for a few days. You do not need that extra noise right now.
Surround yourself with people who talk about things other than school.
Stay off social media for a while.
Image: Cottonbro Studio / Pexels
Move your body
It’s summer and the perfect weather for getting outside. Go for a walk, play a game of soccer, or just get some sun.
Physical activity releases endorphins, which are your body’s natural way of fighting off the "jitters."
Keeping your body active helps burn off that excess nervous energy that tends to build up when you are stuck indoors.
Advice for the parents
Manage your own anxiety
Children often mirror the emotions of their parents. If you are pacing the floor and talking about university placements every five minutes, they will absorb that pressure.
Try to keep the atmosphere at home light and supportive. Your calm presence can be the anchor they need during this week of uncertainty.
Watch for the warning signs
Keep an eye on your teen’s behaviour. If they are suddenly very withdrawn, not eating, or unusually irritable, they might be struggling more than they are letting on.
\Be a safe space for them to talk without judgment. Sometimes, just sitting with them and acknowledging that "it’s okay to be scared" is enough to lower their stress levels.
Emphasise effort over results
Remind your child that you are proud of the work they put in, regardless of the number on the paper. Let them know that while matric is important, it does not define their entire worth as a human being.
There are many successful people in South Africa who took unconventional paths to get where they are today.
Perspective is key
The most important thing to remember is that 13 January is just one day. If the results are exactly what you hoped for, that is fantastic.
If they are not, it is not the end of the road. Between bridging courses, second chances, and rewrites, there are always ways to reach your goals.
South Africa has many paths to success, and sometimes the scenic route is the one that teaches you the most resilience.
Take a deep breath. You have made it through twelve years of school. You can make it through this final week of waiting.
If you are feeling completely overwhelmed and need someone to talk to, you can contact the SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) on 0800 567 567.