As matriculants across South Africa prepare to receive their results, the transition from school to adulthood presents both exciting opportunities but also heavy stress. It is critical that we support matriculants in building resilience and managing mental health during this life-changing phase. With alarming statistics highlighting that 9.5% of teen deaths in South Africa are due to suicide and that a third of hospital admissions for suicide attempts involve teenagers, the importance of fostering mental health awareness cannot be overstated.
Ruvé Esterhuysen, a clinical psychologist based at Life Poortview, joins us now to discuss these pressing mental health issues and provide guidance on supporting young people during this pivotal life stage.