October Health – 2025 Report

Neurodiversity in South Africa

The leading cause of neurodiversity stress in South Africa at the population level is workplace and educational system misalignment with neurodiverse needs. This includes lack of awareness, inadequate accommodations, stigma, and rigid structures that do not support diverse cognitive styles. These systemic barriers contribute most significantly to stress among neurodiverse groups. Utilizing digital group sessions like those offered by October can help workplaces foster better understanding and inclusion.

← back to the Report
Neurodiversity Prevalence
9.56%
Affected people
5,258,000

Impact on the people of South Africa

Effects of High Neurodiversity Stress on Health and Personal Life

  • Mental Health Impact

    • Increased anxiety and depression
    • Heightened feelings of overwhelm and burnout
    • Lowered self-esteem and self-worth

  • Physical Health Consequences

    • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or irregular sleep patterns)
    • Increased risk of psychosomatic symptoms (headaches, fatigue)
    • Weakened immune system due to chronic stress

  • Personal Life Challenges

    • Strained relationships due to communication difficulties or misunderstandings
    • Social withdrawal and isolation
    • Difficulty balancing work and personal time, leading to reduced life satisfaction

  • Workplace Implications

    • Reduced productivity and increased absenteeism
    • Challenges with sensory overload or executive functioning demands
    • Risk of negative workplace stigma if neurodiversity is not supported

Support Suggestion Implementing digital group sessions and mental health assessments, like those offered by October, can provide employees with coping strategies and promote better understanding of neurodiversity in the workplace.

Impact on the South Africa Economy

Effects of High Neurodiversity Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Workforce Productivity
    High stress related to neurodiversity can lead to absenteeism, presenteeism, and lower overall productivity in the workplace.

  2. Increased Healthcare Costs
    Stress-related mental health issues increase demand for healthcare services, raising costs for employers and the public health system.

  3. Loss of Talent and Innovation
    Neurodiverse individuals may leave the workforce if unsupported, leading to a loss of unique skills and innovation potential essential for economic growth.

  4. Higher Employee Turnover
    Increased stress can lead to higher turnover rates, which raises recruitment and training costs for businesses.

  5. Negative Impact on Workplace Culture
    Stress can weaken team dynamics and reduce collaboration, leading to decreased morale and efficiency.

Workplace Mental Health Support Suggestion:
Implementing programs like Panda’s digital group sessions and assessments can help companies reduce neurodiversity-related stress, improve inclusion, and support employee well-being, ultimately benefiting economic performance.

What can government do to assist? 

 Strategies to Lower Neurodiversity Stress in a Country

1. **Workplace Inclusion Policies**  
   Enforce and promote inclusive hiring practices and reasonable accommodations for neurodivergent employees.

2. **Public Awareness Campaigns**  
   Educate the public and employers about neurodiversity to reduce stigma and misunderstandings.

3. **Accessible Mental Health Services**  
   Provide tailored mental health support and resources sensitive to neurodiverse needs.

4. **Education System Adaptations**  
   Implement flexible learning environments that accommodate different cognitive styles and needs.

5. **Digital Group Sessions & Assessments**  
   Use platforms like October by October to offer digital group workshops and assessments helping neurodivergent individuals and employers manage stress and improve workplace dynamics.

6. **Legal Protections**  
   Strengthen laws protecting neurodivergent individuals from discrimination, ensuring equal opportunities.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

How Companies Can Lower Neurodiversity Stress

  1. Create an Inclusive Environment

    • Provide quiet, low-stimulation workspaces
    • Allow flexible work hours and remote work options

  2. Offer Clear Communication

    • Use straightforward, written instructions
    • Avoid ambiguous or figurative language in work tasks

  3. Provide Training and Awareness

    • Educate managers and employees on neurodiversity
    • Use resources like October’s digital group sessions for team learning

  4. Customize Support and Accommodations

    • Offer personalized adjustments such as noise-cancelling headphones
    • Enable breaks and time management aids tailored to individual needs

  5. Encourage Open Dialogue

    • Foster a culture where employees feel safe discussing their challenges and needs

Implementing these measures can reduce workplace stress for neurodiverse employees and improve overall productivity and wellbeing.