Matric results: Psychologist cautions parents pick up signs of distress from children

CAPE TOWN - South Africa's 2024 National Senior Certificate candidates or matrics are awaiting their results to determine their futures.

This comes shortly before the 2025 academic year starts.

Clinical psychologist Ruve Esterhuysen said matric results are likely to weigh heavily on their mental health as they decide what they want to do next. 

She explained why this period is particularly stressful for matriculants. 

“The imbalance, I think, is because of all the pressures that the teens face. We need to remember that it's also a normal period for the matriculants now going into the adult world, with all of its uncertainty and you know adulthood holds the promise of freedom and independence. But there’s a major increase in responsibility and this is a major life transition.”  

Ruve said there are signs parents can look out for, to ensure their children don't suffer in silence.

“I think it's important to look at any changes that your child or the young person is actually showing. You would see major changes in their emotions and behaviours. They might not enjoy things that they previously enjoyed to do, as I mentioned disturbances in sleep and appetite. They might even have complaints... about headaches, muscle pains, you might see poor personal hygiene.”  

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