For hundreds of thousands of South African matric learners, the final year of high school is one of the most defining, and demanding, periods of their lives.
With university admissions, career opportunities, bursaries and family expectations often appearing to rest on a single set of results, many learners are carrying immense pressure as they prepare for their final examinations. Mental health experts warn that chronic stress, anxiety and burnout can undermine academic performance, making emotional wellbeing just as important as studying in the lead-up to final exams.
“The pressure on our young people is tremendous,” says Pertunia Nkomo-Mofokeng, Deputy Dean of Teaching and Learning at Rosebank International.
“Long study hours, fear of failure, comparison with peers and uncertainty about the future create a perfect storm of anxiety and stress. The emotional toll is felt not only by matric learners, but by their families as well.”
She warns that while academic success remains important, students should not lose sight of their overall wellbeing.
