October Health – 2025 Report

35-44 Demographic in Canada

The leading cause of stress for the age group 35-44 in Canada is typically work-related pressure, including job demands, workload, and work-life balance challenges. Family responsibilities and financial concerns also significantly contribute to stress in this demographic. To support employee mental health in this age group, workplaces can offer resources like digital group sessions on stress management through platforms such as October, as well as mental health assessments and targeted content.

How mental health affects the 35-44 demographic differently

  • Career Progression Pressure: People aged 35-44 often face heightened stress related to advancing or stabilizing their careers, including balancing leadership roles or navigating mid-career transitions.

  • Work-Life Balance: This group frequently juggles demanding job responsibilities alongside family obligations such as childcare or aging parent care, leading to increased stress.

  • Financial Responsibilities: Mortgage payments, saving for children’s education, and planning for retirement can create significant financial strain.

  • Health Concerns: Early signs of chronic health issues or a focus on fitness and wellness may become more prominent stressors.

  • Social Expectations: Societal pressure around achieving personal and professional milestones can contribute to anxiety and self-doubt.

For workplaces, providing targeted mental health resources like digital group sessions or assessments through services like October can help employees in this age group manage these stresses effectively.

Data from October Health

What's driving mental health stresses for the 35-44 demographic in South African?

Proactive mental fitness for high performance staff.

Understand the stresses and workplace challenges of your staff and provide them with the tools to protect their productivity and mental health.