The Gauteng Department of Health has asked matric learners and their families to put mental health and wellbeing first during the National Senior Certificate exams.
According to SAnews, nearly a million learners are sitting for the first papers of the 2026 year-end exams.
“Exam-related stress is normal, as learners face expectations from parents, teachers and themselves,” the department said.
The department said too much pressure, long study hours, poor sleep and last-minute cramming can hurt focus and memory. It said these habits can also affect a learner’s general wellbeing.
It advised learners to make realistic study plans and to split their revision into smaller parts. The department said learners should take regular breaks and get enough rest.
The department warned learners not to give up sleep, meals and exercise just to study for longer. “Neglecting these basic needs can contribute to exhaustion and burnout,” it said.
It also told learners to stay away from too much caffeine and energy drinks. The department said learners should not compare their progress with that of other learners.
The department said matric results do not decide a learner’s future. “Results do not define a learner’s intelligence, personal worth or entire future,” it said.
It said marks can be affected by many things, including social, economic and physical conditions. The department said hard work and motivation count for more than exam marks alone.
Parents and caregivers were asked to watch for signs that a learner is struggling emotionally. The department said long periods of distress should not be brushed off as normal exam stress.
“Any mention of suicide or a desire to die must be taken seriously and requires urgent professional assessment,” the department said.
It said learners and families can get help at nearby public clinics and hospitals, from school support teams and from social workers.
The department also asked families and communities not to put heavy pressure on learners. It said the pressure can be very strong for learners who feel they must repay their families’ sacrifices.
It said parents should give learners healthy meals, make sure they have the right exam materials and encourage rest. The department said parents should avoid threats, punishment or blame over marks.
Help is also available from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group on its 24-hour toll-free line, 0800 567 567. Childline South Africa runs a 24-hour toll-free line on 116.
Lifeline South Africa can be reached on 011 715 2000 between 08:00 and 17:00, Monday to Friday.
“Learners and families are encouraged to seek assistance early rather than wait until the situation becomes overwhelming,” the department said. It added that asking for help is a sign of strength.
Source: this article is based on reporting by SAnews.gov.za. Image: GCIS via SAnews.gov.za. Written with the help of AI and published by the Tzaneen Voice News desk. See our Editorial Standards.
Kgomotso Maake covers news and politics for Tzaneen Voice. Kgomotso reports on government, Parliament, municipalities, courts, crime and service delivery across South Africa, with a close eye on how national decisions reach towns like Tzaneen and the wider Limpopo province. Stories are written in plain English and focus on the facts: who made the decision, what it means, and what happens next.