From matric to the real world: Navigating post-school anxiety
Whether you are starting university, entering college, or looking for work, the move into adulthood is a major shift.
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For over a decade, your life followed a set routine. You had a fixed schedule, a uniform, and a clear path to follow every day.
Now that you have matriculated, that familiar structure is gone.
Whether you are starting university, entering college, or looking for work, the move into adulthood is a major shift.
It is common to feel a sense of fear or "transition anxiety" during this time.
The move from a predictable environment to a world of total independence can feel overwhelming.
If you are feeling stressed about the future, you are not alone. This guide offers practical advice on how to manage the fear of the unknown and step into your next chapter with confidence.
Practical strategies to manage the transition
If you feel your heart racing when you think about the months ahead, try these practical steps to ground yourself.
Shift your perspective on "The Plan"
Many matriculants feel they must have a 10-year plan carved in stone. South Africa’s job market is dynamic, and many people change careers multiple times. Instead of focusing on the next decade, focus on the next three months. Breaking the future into smaller, manageable chunks makes it less intimidating.
Master the basics of independence
Anxiety often stems from a lack of control. You can regain control by learning "life skills" before you leave home. Learn how to manage a basic budget and how to cook three simple, affordable meals. Knowing you can take care of your physical needs builds immense psychological confidence.
Learn how to budget.
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Normalise the "Wobble"
Expect to feel unsettled for the first few weeks. Everyone else on campus or at a new job is likely trying to find their feet as well. It takes time to find your rhythm. Permit yourself to be a beginner. You are learning how to be an adult, and that is a skill that requires practice.
Stay connected, but branch out
Keep in touch with your high school friends for emotional support, but do not let those old ties stop you from meeting new people. Joining a society, a sports club, or a local community group can help bridge the gap between the familiar and the new.
When to seek professional support
Sometimes anxiety becomes more than just "nerves." If you find that your fear is preventing you from sleeping, eating, or leaving the house, it is important to speak to someone.
Moving forward
Leaving high school is a significant milestone. You are moving from a space where your days were planned for you into a space where you get to decide your own path.
Take a deep breath. You have handled the challenges of the NSC and over a decade of schooling. You are more prepared for this next step than you think.