The National Senior Certificate exams are starting on Wednesday, October 26.
Matric is one of the most stressful times in a person’s life.
According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) family support, teacher availability, regular exercise, sleep and proper diet helps learners get through their exams.
Teen wellness coach and educator, Janine Shamos, said children and teens need to learn coping skills before they get to matric.
“It is vital that parents and teachers teach their children how to cope during this period. It is important to foster development of a positive self-esteem and resilience.
“This enables the child to deal with the stresses of matric in a constructive way. We often expect our youth to just handle what life throws at them and, well, they can’t.
“Self-harm is a very real threat at this time of the year, so it is important to start looking at prevention,” Shamos said.
Cassey Chambers, Sadag operations director, said this is a tough time for matriculants and their parents as there’s a lot of pressure and high expectations for the learners to perform well.
“When those learners don’t do as well as they had hoped they can feel dejected and helpless.
“We are here to help learners and their parents with the stress. I have always believed that failure need not be the end of the world; it can be an incredible opportunity for learning and growth. Unfortunately we cannot help with studies or educational problems,” said Chambers.
Sadag has trained counsellors to assist anyone feeling overly anxious or desperate.
Matric learners and their parents are encouraged to call the Sadag toll-free lines on 0800 41 42 43 or send an SMS to 31393 from 8am to 8pm, seven days a week.
Study tips
* Make a timetable so you know what you have to study and when.
* Stay away from junk food, coffee and stimulants – they slow the brain’s ability to concentrate and retain information.
* Stick to healthy snacks and drinks, such as orange juice and Provita and cheese.
* Take regular breaks – the brain can only absorb so much information without over-writing itself – study for 45 minutes then take a break for 10.
* Don’t watch TV or read during your breaks – go for a walk, kick a soccer ball, get some fresh air and stretch your body.
* If you can’t sit and study – don’t… Walk, talk, teach – it will help you remember.
* Use colours when studying; it’s easier for the brain to relate.
*Be prepared when going into your exam – have everything you need, make sure you have eaten and gone to the bathroom before you start.
