Many soon-to-be matriculants may be concerned about future job opportunities and choice of profession. This article explores how parental support is essential in keeping them calm, navigating exam stress, and making life-shaping decisions for what lies beyond their final exams.
Finals time, especially for matriculants, can be a period filled with immense pressure. Many young people are concerned about the lack of job opportunities in the economy and, beyond that, what profession to pursue. Prioritising matric student mental health is crucial during this demanding phase.
A worrying reality in South Africa is that almost half (49,1%) of the 18,3 million people currently not enrolled in education or in employment are aged 15-34. This statistic, according to South African Markets Insights, paints a problematic picture for parents trying to encourage their children, particularly teenagers, to plan for the future. This situation can lead to disheartening demotivation and stagnation of their essential life-shaping decisions.
Fortunately, parents can positively influence their children to keep their heads up during the challenging period of prelims, final exams, and deciding what comes next. Tammy Dicks, National Trauma Support Co-Ordinator at ER24, emphasizes the importance of this support.
The Power of Listening and Reassurance
“Supporting your child is essential to keeping them calm. It’s important to listen and remember that exam stress is normal, as is wondering about what lies ahead. Remind your child that a test, by definition, is a measure of their understanding of completed work. You should constantly reassure them that results aren’t linked to who they are or your love and approval. Tests and challenges are an opportunity to learn and failure isn’t the end of the world. Avoid criticism and, instead, validate your child’s concerns through your guidance and support,” says Dicks. Providing consistent exam stress support in South Africa is key.
Get Actively Involved in Student Mental Health
Parents are advised to know their child’s exam schedule and, if possible, the syllabus. “Assist with study plans and encourage your child to find a process of learning that fits them, because not everybody studies in the same way,” Dicks says. This is particularly relevant for homeschool final exams, where parents often have more direct involvement in structuring study time. “Remind them that exams are important, but not more so than mental and physical well-being. A positive approach promotes a more positive result.” These steps all add to showing support, alongside healthy routines.
Nurturing Healthy Routines for Body and Mind
“Good eating habits, regular breaks and finding a balance between studying and relaxation are crucial for your child, both physically and mentally,” says Dicks. This balance helps with teen anxiety coping strategies. Simple things like ensuring nutritious meals, encouraging short walks, or scheduling downtime can make a significant difference to student mental health.
Addressing Anxiety: Flipping the Script
“Anxiety could be plaguing your child more than you realise, so it’s important to explain that while they may consider the worst possible outcome, they should also consider the best possible one. By trying to ‘flip the script’, your child can approach this time with clarity that things can go well, even if the future’s unclear,” Dicks advises. Open conversations about anxiety, without judgment, are vital. For additional support, organisations like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) offer valuable resources for student mental health.
Navigating Post-Matric Options with an Open Mind
While certain tertiary studies have entry requirements that match good matric exam results, not all children will necessarily need to score highly to get into a college. However, some form of tertiary learning can help them find their way. Though some may go on to do other things, such as starting a business or finding a job that doesn’t require tertiary studies, there’s still merit in choosing an initial focus after matriculating. There are opportunities to do an apprenticeship in a trade; there are bursaries available across a range of fields, and entrepreneurship doesn’t always come with a degree. Exploring post school opportunities SA early can alleviate pressure. Mediclinic, for example, has been recognised as a 2024 Top Employer in SA and offers various bursary opportunities through its Higher Education programme.
Life is a Journey: Embracing Growth
Dicks believes it is wise to consider options as early as possible, but whatever path a child may seem drawn to, parents should maintain a supportive approach. Many youngsters struggle with committing to tertiary studies, as they believe this will determine their entire working career, but that is not always true. According to FundiConnect, 50-60% of university students drop out in the first year, and though there are various reasons for this, changing courses is among them.
“Life is a journey of learning and where we start isn’t necessarily where we end up – but that’s OK. The only way to really know is to try,” observes Dicks. She notes that often, when we try and do not succeed, other options present themselves. “Remind them that if they aren’t making mistakes, they aren’t learning – and if they’re not learning, they’re not growing. It’s crucial to adopt a growth mindset, instead of a fixed one,” she adds. Studying is a useful stepping-stone, but it may not align with where a child ends up professionally because circumstances from financial resources to realistic dreaming will play a role.
Encourage Curiosity and Exploration
Fundamentally, every parent wishes success for their child and can see their capabilities, which can create expectations or add pressure; but being open-minded will have a better result for a child’s present and future well-being. “Parents should take an interest in their child’s dreams. If you encourage curiosity about exploring new things, no matter how unconventional, your child will form a stronger connection with what interests them and what suits them professionally,” says Dicks.
How do you support your matriculant child’s student mental health during stressful exam periods? Share your valuable tips and experiences in the comments below.
For more insights on supporting your teen, share this article and subscribe to our weekly newsletter for resources relevant to South African families!