October Health – 2025 Report
45-54 Demographic in United Kingdom
Finances and money concerns (mortgage/debt, retirement planning, and other financial obligations) are the leading cause of stress for the 45–54 age group in the United Kingdom. In a workplace context, providing financial wellbeing resources can help. If appropriate, October’s digital group sessions and content on financial stress and overall mental health could support employees facing this stress.
How mental health affects the 45-54 demographic differently
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Financial and retirement planning pressures
- Why this hits 45–54: approaching retirement while still paying mortgages and saving; UK context includes auto-enrolment pensions and changes to state pension age.
- Coping: set a clear budget/financial plan, use workplace financial wellbeing resources, and consider independent pension guidance if needed.
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Sandwich generation caregiving
- Why this hits 45–54: balancing care for aging parents with dependent or near-dependent children.
- Coping: request flexible/remote working options, seek carers’ support groups, and pace tasks to avoid overload.
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Menopause-related health and sleep changes
- Why this hits 45–54: menopausal symptoms can affect mood, energy, and sleep for many in this window.
- Coping: discuss symptoms with a GP, adopt sleep hygiene practices, and request reasonable workplace accommodations if needed.
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Career progression pressures and job security
- Why this hits 45–54: concerns about staying competitive, potential age biases, and changes due to automation.
- Coping: plan upskilling or mentoring, have regular development conversations, and use EAP or mental health resources for support.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 45-54 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.