SKA Square Kilometre Array Bid
2012-02-16Wednesday 4 April is an important day on SA's science calendar. That is when the decision will be announced to build the core site of the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) radio telescope in South Africa or in Australia. more
Iziko Summer School 2012
2012-02-15"Thoughtful Reflections on our Art, History and Heritage" runs right up until Saturday 25 February 2012. This year's theme is inspired by the ANC’s Centenary Celebrations. Events showcase history and art by collecting, conserving and connecting people to South Africa's rich cultural heritage. more
« Back | Home » 2012 How to cope if you failed Matric
This year, more than 620 000 candidates sat down to write their final exams. While some passed with flying colours, others will be left feeling frustrated with their grades – faced with even tougher prospects of finding work when one in two young South Africans is already jobless.
As such, “matric is often mistakenly seen as a do-or-die situation,” argues Resilience Therapist and Lecturer Janine Shamos. “The trick is not to panic! Matriculants must remember there are options, including re-doing their Matric. There are also university bridging programmes available, like MGI’s Pre-degree Programme to improve on pass rates; as well as FET colleges, or supplementary exams for those who failed less than three exams – so explore all avenues.”
For psychologist and FAMAC-accredited mediator Welmoet Bok, even before taking exams, it’s important to work through worst-case scenarios and devise a plan of action in case your results are not what you hoped for. She cautions against ‘catastrophic’ thinking, such as telling yourself: ‘this is the end of the world’ or ‘my life is over’.
“It’s important to keep calm,” advises Welmoet. “Think neutral or positive thoughts such as: ‘I will plan effectively and take one day at a time’. If you need help with this, find a counsellor or psychologist who specialises in cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), particularly helpful for this type of issue.”
Shamos agrees that speaking with someone can go a long way. “If you fail, work with someone – a counsellor, coach or relative – and see where and why you went wrong. Learn from the mistakes! Failing Matric never has to be the end of the road,” says Shamos, who believes much of the problem lies in how we see and perceive failure. “Many of us are taught from when we are tiny that if we fail, we are failures. Not so! Failure can be an opportunity for growth, development and learning – the chance to ask how we can make ourselves better.”
In fact, learning to cope with, and to bounce back from failure, is one of the most important life skills we all need to acquire for a number of reasons, says Welmoet. “First, individuals who are afraid to fail tend to hold back when it comes to taking on challenges and thus never truly reach their potential. Second, if one hasn't worked through one's fear of failure, this can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety, which can affect performance, self-esteem and even one's health.”
However, for those simply unable to rally themselves after disappointing results, or who find themselves depressed or even suicidal, Welmoet says: “It’s crucial they tell someone they trust and get some professional help.”
For help and support, contact:
- The South Africa Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) on (011) 262-6396. For a suicidal Emergency contact SADAG on 0800 567 567.
- For more info on the Resilient Adolescent Programme, contact Janine Shamos on janine.shamos@gmail.com
- To contact Welmoet Bok or to make an appointment, visit www.bgpsychologists.co.za
196.7.127.15