October Health – 2025 Report

35-44 Demographic in South Africa

Financial stress from debt and the high cost of living, together with job insecurity, is the leading stressor for adults aged 35–44 in South Africa. In the workplace, support can include financial wellness programs, clear workload management, and easy access to employee mental health resources (e.g., October sessions).

How mental health affects the 35-44 demographic differently

  • Financial pressures: mortgage, children’s education, retirement savings, and rising costs.

  • Work-life balance and career pressures: long hours, job security, promotions, and disruptions like load shedding affecting productivity.

  • Parenting and schooling demands: coordinating school routines, activities, transport, and safety.

  • Caring for aging or ill relatives: time demands, emotional toll, and caregiving costs.

  • Health and wellbeing concerns: managing personal health, sleep disruption, and access to healthcare.

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.