Waiting to receive your final results during the weeks after the final matric exams can be some of the most emotionally challenging of a Grade 12 learner’s life. Relief, excitement, uncertainty, anxiety, and even a sense of emptiness can all emerge at once.

Sarina Bosman, a communications specialist with the Solidariteit Skoleondersteuningsentrum (Solidarity School Support System), says this is perfectly normal.

“This is the end of a major life chapter,” she explained.

She said many may feel ‘in between’ – that they are no longer schoolchildren, but not yet fully adults. According to her, recognising these emotions is important as it is part of personal growth.

For some, waiting for their results can be more stressful than the exams themselves.

Bosman points out that the exams, despite their intensity, provide structure: learners know what to study and how to prepare. The waiting period, by contrast, is open-ended.

The uncertainty surrounding your results and future plans can trigger anxiety.

“Focus on what you can control,” Bosman advises, “like self-care, goal-setting for the year ahead, and connecting with people who support you.”

She points out in this way, waiting becomes a chance for growth, not just tension.

Parents and friends play a vital role during this time. Bosman emphasises that emotional presence is more valuable than offering solutions.

Simple words of encouragement like, ‘I know this is a difficult time, but I believe in you’, can provide comfort.

Emotional safety allows matric learners to express their feelings, whether through talking, journaling or creative activities.

Comparisons with peers or pressure to predict results should be avoided.

Instead, Bosman reminds parents and friends that a child’s worth is not defined by marks.

She believes managing stress in healthy ways is crucial.

Bosman recommends balancing activity and rest. Exercise, walks in nature, listening to music, and creative outlets such as writing or drawing can help.

Mindfulness and breathing exercises calm the body’s stress response, while limiting social media use reduces fear and unhealthy comparisons.

“Self-care is not an escape,” Bosman says. “It is preparation for the next chapter in life.”

Signs that a matric learner is struggling with overwhelming anxiety or stress should not be ignored.

Bosman highlights behavioural changes such as irritability, withdrawal, sleep problems, loss of interest in favourite activities, or physical symptoms like headaches and nausea.

Persistent worries about results or social isolation indicate high anxiety. Emotional literacy, being able to name and manage feelings, is key.

If necessary, a conversation with a counsellor or psychologist can provide relief and guidance.

Learners also need to understand their results do not define their value.

Bosman stresses the marks reflect academic performance, not personal worth. Helping them see that their potential goes far beyond their report card builds confidence and hope.

She pointed out this period can become a valuable learning experience, teaching matrics to base their identity on values, not outcomes.

Schools and communities can ease the transition by offering support.

Bosman recommends initiatives like Life After Matric workshops, mentorship programmes, and relaxation days. These interventions teach emotional regulation, goal-setting, and gratitude.

Preparing emotionally for success or disappointment is important. Bosman advises to consider all outcomes: celebrate successes with gratitude, and treat setbacks as learning opportunities.

The question, ‘What can I learn from this experience?’ encourages resilience and protects against self-doubt. “Strength is greater than any grade on paper.”

Simple strategies can help you stay calm.

Bosman suggests techniques like daily gratitude journaling and visualisation exercises to imagine handling results confidently. Regular routines, adequate sleep, and connection with loved ones further strengthen emotional stability.

For matric learners who are anxious about the future, Bosman offers this reassurance: “You are not your results. Your courage, adaptability, and character define you more than any grade. The road ahead will have twists, but these experiences shape who you are. Even if things do not go according to plan, you are moving toward something valuable. Your future is a journey, not a single outcome, and you are its author.”

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