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I informed my daughter that in the US, one in three teenage deaths is caused by motor vehicle accidents, and most of these are caused by the abuse of alcohol. She had a disturbing fact of her own in response: in South Africa, most teenage deaths are caused by suicide. I had no idea (I have not verified this fact either). But I do know that at this time of the year, when high school learners write exams that may significantly determine their future careers, especially if they are matric exams, an unbelievable pressure to succeed descends on them like an ominous cloud. A week before her exams started, I had to take my daughter to the doctor because of a puzzling and painful muscle spasm which turned out to be stress-related. Inexpensive anti-inflammatory and muscle-relaxant medication worked almost immediately. But she has another non-medical strategy up her sleeve to help her cope with the end-of-year exams. Earlier this year, she fell in love with horses. I can barely have a conversation with her that does not somehow gravitate towards this equestrian passion that galloped into her life at full speed and doesn’t seem intent on slowing down any time soon. So, while she prepares for her exams, she will continue to ride and help out as a volunteer at a riding school where underprivileged children, and those from more affluent environments, share their love for horses on the same turf. This is a very good plan, as horses have a calming effect on people. It’s not surprising then that one of her favourite sayings lately, if her parents are getting worked up about something, is “dude, just chill”.
Read more about helping your child cope with exams.
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