SADAG urges parents to maintain positivity while children await matric results

The South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) is advising parents to interact normally with their children as they await the release of 2025 matric results next Tuesday. 

SADAG’s Education Manager Roshni Paboo-Seetha said parents should avoid speaking negatively or threatening their children, but also cautioned against over-coddling as anxiety and stress build ahead of the results. 

She added that while maintaining normal routines is encouraged, parents should direct learners to the SADAG helpline if additional support is needed. 

“Continue that normal routine that you've always had, you know, but create a nice open conversation environment or, you know, speak without judging, but don't start creating special breakfasts every single morning.” 

Paboo-Seetha encourages parents to contact SADAG for support, noting that both learners and parents often experience heightened stress and anxiety in the lead-up to the release of results. 

“Sometimes even parents are scared. Even parents are going through that fear of what's going to happen. I'm worried about my child. I’m worried about their future. And that's why organisations like SADAG are available 24/7.”