October Health – 2025 Report

Self-esteem in South Africa

The leading cause of self-esteem stress in South Africa at the population level is often linked to socio-economic factors, including high unemployment rates, poverty, and inequality. These conditions can limit opportunities for achievement and social mobility, which in turn impact collective self-worth and mental well-being. Workplace environments affected by these socio-economic stresses can benefit from mental health support like October’s digital group sessions and assessments to help employees cope and build resilience.

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Self-esteem Prevalence
23.83%
Affected people
13,106,500

Impact on the people of South Africa

Effects of High Amount of Self-Esteem Stress on Health and Personal Life

  • Physical Health

    • Increased risk of headaches, fatigue, and sleep disturbances
    • Higher likelihood of stress-related illnesses like hypertension or digestive issues

  • Mental Health

    • Anxiety and depression due to constant self-criticism or fear of failure
    • Reduced resilience and increased vulnerability to burnout

  • Personal Relationships

    • Strained interactions from irritability or defensiveness
    • Withdrawal or social isolation to avoid perceived judgment

  • Workplace Impact

    • Decreased productivity and job satisfaction
    • Increased absenteeism and presenteeism

Support tip: Implementing digital group sessions or mental health assessments through platforms like October can help employees address self-esteem stress and improve overall wellbeing.

Impact on the South Africa Economy

Effects of High Self-Esteem Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity
    Employees experiencing self-esteem stress may have lower confidence, leading to decreased performance and innovation in the workplace.

  2. Increased Absenteeism and Turnover
    Stress related to self-esteem often results in burnout, mental health struggles, and absenteeism, increasing costs for businesses and the economy.

  3. Lower Employee Engagement
    Workers with impaired self-esteem may disengage, reducing collaboration and efficiency within teams.

  4. Higher Healthcare Costs
    Elevated stress can lead to mental health issues requiring healthcare interventions, impacting both private and public healthcare systems.

  5. Decreased Consumer Confidence
    A workforce struggling with self-esteem stress can translate into lower overall consumer morale and spending, affecting economic growth.

Workplace Suggestion:
Implement mental health support programs like digital group sessions and assessments through platforms such as Panda, to help employees manage self-esteem stress effectively, improving overall economic outcomes.

What can government do to assist?

How a Country Can Lower Self-Esteem Stress

  1. Promote Inclusive Education

    • Implement programs that encourage self-worth and resilience from a young age.
    • Teach emotional intelligence and coping skills in schools.

  2. Support Workplace Mental Health

    • Encourage businesses to adopt mental health support tools like digital group sessions (e.g., October).
    • Offer training to managers on recognizing and addressing self-esteem issues among employees.

  3. Public Awareness Campaigns

    • Run campaigns that challenge stigma and promote positive body image and self-acceptance.
    • Highlight stories of diverse role models to reinforce varied definitions of success.

  4. Accessible Mental Health Services

    • Increase availability of low-cost or free counseling and therapy services nationwide.
    • Use digital platforms to reach remote or underserved populations.

  5. Community Building Initiatives

    • Support social groups and community centers that foster connection and peer support.
    • Encourage volunteer work, which can boost a sense of purpose and self-esteem.

Using tools like October’s digital mental health content can assist workplaces and communities in building these supports effectively.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

How Companies Can Lower Self-Esteem Stress

  1. Promote a Supportive Work Environment
    Encourage open communication and praise effort as much as results. Recognize small achievements to help employees feel valued.

  2. Provide Constructive Feedback
    Offer feedback that is specific, actionable, and balanced with positive reinforcement rather than criticism alone.

  3. Offer Professional Development Opportunities
    Help employees build skills and confidence through training, mentoring, and career growth programs.

  4. Encourage Work-Life Balance
    Respect boundaries and promote flexibility to reduce burnout, which often impacts self-esteem negatively.

  5. Implement Mental Health Resources
    Provide access to counseling, digital group sessions, and assessments. Tools like October’s mental health content and group sessions can support building self-esteem and resilience.

These strategies foster a workplace where employees feel competent, appreciated, and confident.