October Health – 2025 Report

35-44 Demographic in United Kingdom

Money and finances (including debt, bills, and mortgage payments) are the leading cause of stress for adults aged 35-44 in the United Kingdom. - Workplace/people impact and support: Financial stress can affect sleep, mood, and work performance. Employers can help with financial wellbeing resources, confidential support, and flexible options. - Practical steps and support options: Individuals can try budgeting and seeking financial advice; consider workplace mental health programs like October’s digital group sessions and content on financial wellbeing and stress management.

How mental health affects the 35-44 demographic differently

  • Financial and housing pressures: mortgage or rent costs, childcare expenses, saving for retirement, and the overall cost of living—common mid‑life financial concerns.

  • Parenting and family logistics: school routines, after‑school activities, childcare availability and costs, and parental guilt or burnout from juggling work with family demands.

  • Caring for aging relatives: responsibilities for aging parents or in‑laws, time commitments, and added emotional and logistical strain (the “sandwich generation”).

  • Mid‑career pressures and burnout: expectations around career progression, leadership duties, performance targets, and fear of stagnation or job insecurity.

  • Work‑life balance and digital burnout: blurred boundaries between work and home, expectations of constant connectivity, long hours, and sleep disruption.

  • Health and aging concerns: increased awareness of chronic health risks, regular health checks, and stress‑related symptoms impacting energy and mood.

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.