Minister of basic education Siviwe Gwarube will announce the outcome of the 2025 national senior certificate examinations on Monday (12/1). This marks a highly anticipated moment for thousands of matric learners nationwide.

Candidates will be able to access their results from 06:00 on Tuesday (13/1), either at the schools or centres where they wrote their examinations, or online via the official results platform. 

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (Sadag) reported a surge in calls over the festive season, highlighting ongoing mental health challenges. The organisation received between 2,000 and 3,000 calls per day during this period.

“This clearly shows that mental health challenges remain widespread, especially during the festive season,” said Sadag projects manager and spokesperson Roshni Parbhoo-Seetha. “Many callers were struggling with loneliness, depression, and anxiety, while others included matric learners and their parents ahead of the release of last year’s matric results.”

Mental health professionals emphasise that feelings of anxiety, uncertainty, and anticipation during this period are natural. The department of basic education encourages learners to acknowledge their emotions, practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing or prayer, and focus on self-care through proper rest, nutrition, and physical activity.

Tips for parents 

• Monitor your child: Monitor your child for any behavioural changes, such as changes in sleeping or eating patterns, frustration, or short temper.
• Set boundaries with family and friends: Parents should check with their child and determine how comfortable they are with details of their results being shared with others.
• Manage expectations: Parents need to reassure their child that there is more that awaits after matric and their results do not define who they are.
• Engage in positive conversations at home: Avoid insulting, negative conversations, and comparing your child to others if they have not achieved the desired results.
• Preparing for results day: On the night before results day, parents should ensure their child has a healthy meal, and they get sufficient rest. They should always be available to provide emotional support throughout the day if needed.

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OFM News/Zenande Mpame mvh