With the matric class of 2024 spearing ahead with their final examinations, the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) said grade 12 pupils should be mindful of how they manage their stress levels.
A moderate amount of stress can be a good thing. It can sharpen concentration and performance and help to create the energy and motivation we need to keep studying.
Too much stress, however, can be overwhelming and stop us from being able to study and function healthily in life.
Undoubtedly, it would be disappointing if you did not do as well as you hoped. But, instead of thinking negative thoughts, it is helpful to challenge the thoughts (I won't get a good job, people will think I am stupid, my future is over) with a more realistic assessment of the situation.
Enlist the help of a friend, counsellor or tutor to help you to do this.
If someone believes that their self-worth depends on academic achievement, there will be considerable anxiety surrounding any academic assessment.
Too much anxiety can be paralysing. If the pressure to succeed from family or others is extremely high, it may help to contact your local counselling service to talk about this.
Tips on managing stress
Some individuals may use alcohol, smoking and drugs as a means to manage stress. These may have a calming effect in the short term, however, they are not ideal solutions since they may cause one to feel worse afterward and impair the ability to think clearly.
- Eat at least one proper meal a day and keep the body hydrated.
Exercise. This increases the blood flow around the body which increases clearer thought. Just a 10-minute walk a day can be helpful, especially in using up some of the extra adrenaline created by the stress. - Allow yourself time for relaxation as it will decrease your stress levels. This is not wasting time as it will help you work more effectively.
- Plan how you will use your time during your revision periods. Decide on the order of topics and how much time you will spend on each.
- Stick to your deadlines.
Parents should remind their children that their future does not only rely on exam results. Passing an exam is only part of the story. Remind your child that there are always other chances and other ways to reach your goals. ¥
This information was supplied by the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
For more information about SADAG visit
www.sadag.org or call 0800 567 567
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