The Gauteng Department of Education has joined the call to encourage the class of matric 2025 to make use of mental health support tools made available.
It attributed this to the pressure and sometimes disappointment or anxiety teens may experience after receiving their results.
The department’s call after the Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube announced the results on Monday evening at a ceremony that was held in Fairlands, Johannesburg.
The department advised learners to visit its Primary Health Care facilities across Gauteng, when experiencing emotional distress or suicidal thoughts.
“The Department reminds learners that matric results do not define their worth or determine their future.
Not achieving the desired outcome is a setback but it is not the end.
Young people are urged not to make permanent decisions based on temporary circumstances and to seek help when they feel overwhelmed,” appealed the department’s Deputy Director for Mental Health Services, Radisha Sukhlal.
The department also implored communities at large to support the learners and refrain from passing judgement.
Some of the organisations the department has partnered with to provide immediate emotional and suicide prevention support include the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG).
The candidates can reach out for services via its toll-free lines such as the Suicide Crisis Line: 0800212223 or the Hope line on: 0800467347.
