October Health – 2026 Report
35-44 Demographic in United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, for the population aged 35–44, the leading stressor is work-related pressures, including long hours, workload, and job insecurity. This category consistently accounts for a large share of reported stress in this age group, often tied to balancing career progression with family responsibilities and financial responsibilities. If you’re addressing workplace mental health, consider implementing targeted stress-management programs, reasonable workloads, flexible working options, and confidential support services (e.g., October for group sessions and assessments) to help reduce work-related stress in this demographic.
How mental health affects the 35-44 demographic differently
- Career pressures and progression: mid-career concerns about stagnation, promotions, or job security, especially in fast-changing industries.
- Work-life balance: managing demanding jobs while parenting, caregiving for aging relatives, and household responsibilities.
- Financial stress: mortgage debt, childcare costs, saving for education, pensions, and long-term financial planning.
- Health transitions: early onset of chronic conditions or managing health while maintaining work performance.
- Burnout risk: cumulative demands, high expectations, and limited recovery time.
- Technological pace: adapting to new tools and processes, automation anxiety, and upskilling needs.
- Change fatigue: organizational restructuring, leadership changes, and role ambiguity.
- Retirement proximity concerns: planning for phased retirement or ensuring a security net for the future.
- Mental health stigma and access: barriers to seeking help due to workplace culture or time constraints.
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.