Support Available For Stressed Out Matrics
The pressure to perform in the final exams grows each year as the unemployment rate rises and university seats dwindle. Mental health has become a prevalent subject in youth conversations and it is important to take care of yourself to avoid burning out.
This pressure and stress related to matric results can lead to severe depression and in some cases even suicide.For this reason students are being encouraged to seek counselling by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag). According to Sadag there has been an increase in calls, but students have been reminded that “failing matric is not the end”.
Those who feel stressed should contact Sadag’s 24 hour helpline on 08001213 14.
The Department of Social Development has also mobilised counselling centres around the country in anticipation of the impending crisis.
Besides toll-free numbers, the centres also offer a please-call-me service from any cellphone.
The department reported that they received more than a thousand "please call me messages" from anxious young people seeking counseling services.
Those who need to contact the centre can call 08100 428 429 or send a please call me by typing *120*767#
“...disappointment and failure is normal, however looking to take your own life or feeling like there is no hope is not an option. There is always help and reach out to someone and get help before it is too late,” says Sadag Operations manager, Cassie Chambers.
