October Health – 2025 Report

55-64 Demographic in United Kingdom

For the age group 55-64 in the United Kingdom, the leading causes of stress often include financial concerns (such as savings for retirement or pensions), health issues (both personal and for loved ones), and job insecurity or work-related stress as individuals approach retirement age. Additionally, caregiving responsibilities for elderly parents or supporting adult children can contribute significantly to stress levels in this demographic.

How mental health affects the 55-64 demographic differently

 Stresses Affecting the 55-64 Age Group More Than Others:

1. **Workplace Transitions and Job Security**  
   - Concerns about being replaced by younger workers.  
   - Challenges adapting to technological changes.  
   - Financial stress due to potential redundancy or lack of retirement savings.

2. **Health Concerns**  
   - Awareness of aging and declining physical health.  
   - Coping with chronic illnesses or managing medical conditions.  

3. **Caregiving Responsibilities**  
   - Balancing work demands with caregiving for elderly parents or supporting adult children.  
   - Emotional strain of managing family responsibilities.

4. **Retirement Uncertainty**  
   - Stress of preparing for retirement, financial planning, or transitioning out of the workforce.  
   - Fear of decreased purpose or social engagement post-retirement.

5. **Loneliness and Social Isolation**  
   - Losing connections at work or socially as peers retire.  
   - Adjustments to empty nest syndrome or changing family dynamics.

6. **Discrimination and Ageism**  
   - Facing societal stigma or workplace ageism, leading to feelings of exclusion or inadequacy.

If these concerns are recurring within a workplace, companies could consider mental health support initiatives like October’s group sessions or tailored resources to help employees build resilience and manage stress effectively.

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.