Navigating exam season: Tips for families dealing with stress

As matric and tertiary education exams loom, South African households brace for the annual wave of late-night cramming, emotional meltdowns, and mounting pressure. But while students bear the brunt of academic stress, parents often absorb the ripple effects - quietly managing anxiety, offering pep talks, and trying to keep the household calm.

According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), exam stress is one of the leading triggers of anxiety among teens, often showing up as fatigue, irritability, and even flu-like symptoms. But these are not signs of demotivation - they are biological responses to prolonged mental strain.

The brain, especially in developing teens, uses a huge amount of energy. When stress spikes and nutrition dips, key nutrients like Vitamin B12, Magnesium, and Vitamin C get depleted. This can lead to brain fog, poor concentration, and emotional volatility - just when students need clarity most.

“Stress doesn’t just affect mood - it drains the body’s reserves,” says Keri Rudolph, Founder and CEO of The IV Bar, a health and wellness franchise specialising in IV nutrient therapy and longevity offerings. 

“When teens are under pressure, their sleep, eating habits, and hydration often take a knock. That’s when burnout creeps in.”

Parents can play a vital role in helping their children stay balanced. 

“Encourage proper sleep patterns, regular healthy meals, hydration and short breaks. Even a 10-minute walk can reset the nervous system.”

And while parents focus on their children, they should not neglect their own well-being. “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Calm, grounded parents help raise calm, confident learners. As exam season intensifies, success is not just about study hours - it’s about supporting the whole system, because resilience starts with wellness, and wellness starts at home," concludes Rudolph.