October Health – 2025 Report

Chronic illness in South Africa

The leading cause of chronic illness stress in South Africa at the population level is largely linked to socioeconomic factors such as high unemployment rates, poverty, and inequality. These conditions create persistent stressors related to financial insecurity, lack of access to healthcare, and unsafe living environments. In the workplace context, job insecurity and poor working conditions further exacerbate chronic stress. Supporting employees with accessible mental health resources like October’s digital group sessions and assessments can help manage stress linked to these systemic challenges.

← back to the Report
Chronic illness Prevalence
8.35%
Affected people
4,592,500

Impact on the people of South Africa

  • Physical Health Impact: Chronic illness stress can weaken the immune system, increase inflammation, and exacerbate existing conditions, leading to poorer overall physical health.

  • Mental Health Impact: It often causes anxiety, depression, and emotional fatigue, impairing cognitive function and decision-making abilities.

  • Workplace Effects: Reduced productivity, increased absenteeism, and difficulty concentrating are common, impacting job performance and career progression.

  • Personal Life Consequences: Relationships may suffer due to irritability, withdrawal, or lack of energy, weakening social support networks.

  • Sleep Disruption: Stress related to chronic illness often disrupts sleep, worsening both physical and mental health.

Workplace Recommendation:
Encourage employers to provide supportive mental health resources, such as digital group sessions and assessments through platforms like October, to help employees manage chronic illness stress effectively.

Impact on the South Africa Economy

Effects of High Chronic Illness Stress on an Economy

  • Reduced Workforce Productivity
    Chronic illness stress leads to increased absenteeism and presenteeism, lowering overall employee output.

  • Increased Healthcare Costs
    Employers and the government face higher medical expenses, impacting economic resources.

  • Higher Disability and Unemployment Rates
    Chronic stress-related illnesses can cause long-term disability, reducing labor market participation.

  • Decreased Consumer Spending
    Affected individuals may reduce spending due to medical expenses and reduced income, slowing economic growth.

  • Strain on Social Welfare Systems
    Increased demand for social support and disability benefits can burden public finances.

Workplace Mental Health Support Tip:
Implementing group mental health sessions and assessments through platforms like October can help reduce chronic illness stress, improving productivity and lowering economic impact.

What can government do to assist? 

**Strategies for a Country to Lower Chronic Illness Stress**

1. **Promote Workplace Mental Health Programs**  
   Encourage employers to provide mental health support, including stress management workshops and access to services like October’s digital group sessions.

2. **Increase Access to Healthcare Services**  
   Improve availability of affordable, integrated healthcare addressing both physical and mental health needs to reduce stress from untreated illness.

3. **Public Education and Awareness Campaigns**  
   Raise awareness about chronic illness management and stress reduction techniques, reducing stigma and empowering individuals.

4. **Support Social and Community Networks**  
   Strengthen community support systems to offer emotional assistance and practical help to people with chronic conditions.

5. **Encourage Healthy Lifestyles**  
   Promote physical activity, nutritious diet, and mindfulness practices nationally to improve overall wellbeing and resilience against stress.

6. **Implement Workplace Policies**  
   Enforce policies such as flexible working hours or sick leave accommodations to reduce workplace stress for employees managing chronic illness.

Using comprehensive approaches, including workplace-centered initiatives like those from October and October, can significantly lower chronic illness stress at a national level.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

Strategies to Lower Chronic Illness Stress in the Workplace

  1. Implement Flexible Work Arrangements
    Allow remote work, flexible hours, or part-time schedules to accommodate medical appointments and fluctuating health conditions.

  2. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
    Offer digital group sessions or workshops focused on chronic illness management and stress reduction, such as those provided by October.

  3. Educate Managers and Staff
    Train leaders to recognize chronic illness challenges and foster a supportive, stigma-free environment.

  4. Encourage Regular Breaks and Self-Care
    Promote short breaks and wellness activities during work hours to reduce stress and prevent burnout.

  5. Facilitate Access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
    Ensure employees know how to access counselling and support services tailored to chronic illness stress.

Using these approaches helps create a supportive workplace that can significantly reduce stress related to chronic illnesses.