Many teens will be celebrating the next phase in their lives upon receiving their Matric results, on the other hand some of them could feel alone and isolated if they failed or didnāt do as well as they hoped.
According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), almost one in ten teen deaths in South Africa are caused by suicide. One of the triggers could be exam disappointment.
āMatric is like running an obstacle course and matrics are pushed to their mental, physical and emotional capacities. If they donāt have the right coping skills and support systems, they are more at risk of experiencing mental health challenges,ā said Clinical Psychologist, Candice Combrinck.
Teen suicide warning signs include:
Feeling hopeless, losing interest in doing anything and withdrawing from friends and family.
Talking or joking about suicide
Self-criticism
Risk-taking behaviour like having unprotected sex or taking drugs.
Excessive feelings of guilt, self-blame, failure
Tips for Teens
Combrinck noted that Depression can make you feel exhausted, worthless, helpless and hopeless.
If you are suffering from depression, try to:
Understand depression so that you know what you are dealing with.
Do things to keep your mind busy and things that make you feel better, like exercise.
Set realistic goals.
Break large tasks into smaller ones and do what you can.
Try to be with other people and confide in someone you trust.
Keep a diary or journal. Itās a great way to get your feelings out.
Let your family and friends help you.
SADAG is encouraging these young people to tell someone immediately or call the SADAG Suicide Crisis Helpline and making sure you that they are not alone. The group is also encouraging them to ask family and friends to lock knives, ropes, pills and guns away.
Furthermore, the Department of Basic Education’s Second Chance Matric Support Programme can give the Matriculants the opportunity to achieve or improve a matric qualification.
