October Health – 2025 Report

Female Demographic in South Africa

The leading cause of stress among females in South Africa is often attributed to financial instability and economic pressure. This includes concerns about job security, income inequality, and the rising cost of living. Additionally, societal expectations related to caregiving and balancing work-life responsibilities also contribute significantly to stress levels.

How mental health affects the Female demographic differently

  • Workplace Discrimination: Women often face gender bias and discrimination, impacting job opportunities and career progression.

  • Balancing Responsibilities: Women frequently juggle work with household responsibilities and childcare, leading to increased stress.

  • Career Breaks: Maternity leave and caregiving roles can interrupt career paths, affecting long-term financial and professional growth.

  • Social Expectations: Societal pressure to conform to traditional gender roles can add stress, particularly in balancing work and personal life.

  • Safety Concerns: Women may experience heightened anxiety related to safety in the workplace, especially in male-dominated environments.

To mitigate these stresses, companies can benefit from using platforms like October, which offers group sessions and resources addressing these specific challenges.

Data from October Health

What's driving mental health stresses for the Female 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.