Workplace stress reaches concerning levels, SADAG survey shows
Many employees say they feel trapped in their jobs as stress, burnout and lack of support continue to take a toll on their well-being.
South Africa’s workers are facing growing mental pressure, with findings from the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) Working Life Survey showing high levels of burnout, anxiety and job insecurity across various sectors.
Based on 963 responses, six in 10 people said they wish they could afford to leave their jobs, while half reported starting their week feeling unhappy, highlighting the level of pressure employees face. More than half of respondents also indicated they live with a diagnosed mental health condition, suggesting that work may be a significant source of stress.
“We receive calls every day from employees who feel overwhelmed, anxious, burnt out, or are struggling to cope with the pressures of work and life. Many people reach out when they feel they have nowhere else to turn, often when stress has already begun to affect their wellbeing, relationships and performance,” said Lyn Labuschagne, SADAG’S corporate wellness manager.
“What we are seeing is that workplace stress is not just about workload. It is also linked to financial pressure, trauma, job insecurity and a lack of mental health support systems within organisations.”
Through SADAG’s Corporate Wellness and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) services, the organisation partners with corporates and medical aids to provide helplines, counselling, crisis and emotional support, as well as training, workshops, and awareness initiatives aimed at building healthier workplaces.
Call for stronger mental health support
The goal is to help organisations move from simply reacting to problems to creating environments where mental health is prioritised, stigma is reduced, and employees feel safe to ask for help. When mental health is supported at work, both employees and organisations are better able to cope.
“Many employees don’t have the option of resigning to show they are unhappy,” said Dr Bronwyn Dworzanowski-Venter, a researcher.
“With 52% diagnosed with stress-related mental health conditions, 61% wanting to quit and 75% unable to switch off after hours, it’s clear that workplaces must change. This includes limiting after-hours communication and allowing employees to take leave when needed for healthcare,” she added.
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Why workplace well-being matters
Recently, SADAG hosted a live online “Ask the Expert” session titled The Hidden Impact of Poor Mental Health at Work featuring clinical psychologist Lauren Davis.
The session explored how mental health challenges affect employees daily – impacting focus, productivity, relationships and overall well-being – and why addressing these challenges is essential for both individuals and organisations.
“Workplace mental health isn’t a ‘nice to have’, it’s the backbone of performance,” said Davis. “When people feel supported, understood, and mentally well, they don’t just cope – they thrive. That has a direct impact on productivity, morale, and the overall success of any organisation.”
If you or someone you know is struggling with stress, burnout, or feeling overwhelmed at work, SADAG can be contacted via WhatsApp at 087 163 2030 (available 08:00 to 17:00), by calling the helpline on 0800 21 22 23 to speak to a counsellor, or by sending an SMS to 31393 to receive a callback.
For more information and resources, visit www.sadag.org. To learn more about SADAG’s EAP services, explore their corporate support programmes online.
