Brief
Gauteng health department urges matriculants to prioritise mental health during exams
The department outlines practical steps and warning signs, and points to public health facilities for support.
By Felo News Desk · Published
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has called on matric learners, families and schools to prioritise mental health as the National Senior Certificate exam period begins on 13 October 2026, when almost a million students sit their first year‑end exams.
What happened
On the day the exams start, the GDoH released a statement warning that normal exam‑related stress can become harmful if learners sacrifice sleep, meals or physical activity to study longer. The department highlighted that excessive caffeine, energy drinks and unhealthy study routines may worsen concentration and overall well‑being.
What the reports add
Bizcommunity reported that the GDoH advises learners to create realistic study schedules, break revision into manageable sections and take regular breaks. It also lists specific warning signs of emotional distress, such as persistent sadness, withdrawal, changes in sleep or appetite, poor self‑care and low energy. The statement stresses that any mention of suicide or a desire to die must be taken seriously and assessed by professionals.
What was said
The department said, "Exam‑related stress is normal, as learners face expectations from parents, teachers and themselves. However, excessive pressure, prolonged study hours, inadequate sleep and last‑minute cramming can affect concentration, memory and overall well‑being," as reported by Bizcommunity. It added, "While matric examinations are an important academic milestone, results do not define a learner’s intelligence, personal worth or entire future," and assured that personal growth extends beyond marks.
How it came about
Earlier this month, Felo News covered World Mental Health Day (10 October 2026) and highlighted national calls for better mental‑health support. The current GDoH advisory builds on that broader push, applying the same emphasis on early detection and community‑based assistance to the specific context of high‑stakes school examinations.
Key facts
- Nearly a million matriculants sit exams on 13 Oct 2026 in Gauteng. (bizcommunity.com)
- GDoH advises realistic study schedules, regular breaks and adequate sleep. (bizcommunity.com)
- Warning signs include persistent sadness, withdrawal, sleep or appetite changes, poor self‑care and low energy. (bizcommunity.com)
- Any mention of suicide must be taken seriously and assessed by professionals. (bizcommunity.com)
- The department says exam results do not determine a learner's future intelligence or worth. (bizcommunity.com)
Sources
- [1] bizcommunity.com — originally reported as “Matrics urged to prioritise mental health as final exams begin”
