October Health – 2024 Report

35-44 Demographic in United Kingdom

The leading cause of stress for the 35-44 age group in the United Kingdom is often related to work-related pressures. This includes job security concerns, work-life balance challenges, and high workloads. Additionally, financial concerns, such as mortgage repayments and living expenses, alongside family responsibilities, contribute significantly to stress in this age group.

How mental health affects the 35-44 demographic differently

 Unique Stresses Affecting the 35-44 Age Group

1. **Career Pressure:**
   - This age group often faces significant pressure to solidify their career paths and achieve higher positions, which can lead to stress if these milestones are not reached.

2. **Work-Life Balance:**
   - Balancing demanding careers with family responsibilities is common, as many in this age group may be raising children and/or caring for ageing parents.

3. **Financial Strain:**
   - Financial responsibilities might peak with mortgages, school fees, and savings for children’s education or future, leading to increased financial stress.

4. **Advanced Parenting Challenges:**
   - Navigating the teenage years of children can present new parenting challenges that impact emotional and psychological well-being.

5. **Health Concerns:**
   - Increased awareness and management of personal health issues may become more prominent, as mid-life health screenings and lifestyle changes are encouraged.

6. **Social Pressure:**
   - There might be societal and self-imposed pressure to achieve certain milestones such as home ownership, career success, or family stability by this age.

 Workplace Strategies to Address Stress:
- Flexible working arrangements to improve work-life balance.
- Access to financial planning resources and support.
- Offering mental health support, such as digital group sessions, through platforms like October.

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.