MATRICULANTS who may be anxious about their examination results have been urged to make use of the Department of Social Development’s Gender-Based Violence Command Centre (GBVCC).

As the Class of 2019 get their National Senior Certificate results, reports of depression and suicide tend to be on the increase during this time.

“The department urges matriculants and their parents to make use of the Command Centre to receive counselling and support from trained social workers. It also appeals to parents to look out for any signs of depression expressed by their children so that interventions can be sought early to help the youngsters deal with the outcome of their examinations,” said the department in a statement.

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The command centre can be reached toll free on 0800 428 428. Callers can also request a social worker to contact them by dialling *120*7867# (free) from any cell phone.

Deaf callers can also interact with the centre using Skype, by adding ‘HELPMEGBV’ to their contacts. A social worker will accept the invite and call them back.

The Second Chance Matric Support Programme, by the Department of Basic Education, is available to support learners who wish to use the second opportunity to sit for exams. Learners can register for this at their schools or district offices.

The department urged matrics to refrain from drinking alcohol or abusing substances due to the outcomes of their exam results.

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