October Health – 2025 Report
55-64 Demographic in South Africa
The leading cause of stress for the 55-64 age group in South Africa is often financial insecurity, including concerns about retirement savings and job stability. This age group faces pressures related to economic uncertainty, healthcare costs, and supporting dependents, which are significant contributors to stress at both individual and workplace levels. For workplace support, implementing retirement planning resources and mental health group sessions via platforms like October can help employees manage stress effectively.
How mental health affects the 55-64 demographic differently
- Job Security Anxiety: Approaching retirement can create uncertainty about job continuity and financial stability in South Africa's fluctuating economy.
- Health Concerns: Increased prevalence of chronic health issues and managing healthcare costs.
- Caring Responsibilities: Balancing care for aging parents and possibly supporting adult children or grandchildren.
- Ageism at Work: Facing discrimination or feeling undervalued due to age in a competitive job market.
- Retirement Planning Stress: Pressure to adequately prepare financially and emotionally for retirement transition.
Workplace Tip: Introducing targeted digital group sessions through platforms like October can help employees in this age group discuss these stresses, share coping strategies, and feel supported.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 55-64 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.