We spend roughly 90 000 hours, or about 45 years, of our lives at work. So it’s no wonder our mental and emotional wellbeing are taking a hit. As Corporate Wellness Week starts tomorrow (running from 1 to 5 July), burnout is top of mind and South Africans are feeling the pressure more than most.
According to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), as many as one in three employees in SA are affected by burnout, which is the result of prolonged, unmanaged stress. It’s not just about feeling tired; it’s emotional, physical and mental exhaustion that can lead to serious issues like poor sleep, brain fog and depression.
“Burnout doesn’t happen overnight – it’s the result of stress that builds up over time,” explains Nicole Jennings, spokesperson for Pharma Dynamics. “It’s often disguised as productivity – people push harder, skip breaks, sacrifice sleep – all in the name of performance, until their health eventually begins to unravel.”
Who’s at risk?
Those in high-stress sectors like healthcare or emergency services are especially vulnerable. But younger workers, women, LGBTQI+ individuals, neurodivergent people and those facing financial pressure are also at higher risk, says a 2025 global survey by the McKinsey Health Institute.
In SA, things are intensified by the economy, loadshedding and poor service delivery. “Many in their 20s and 30s entered adulthood during a time of global uncertainty,” says Jennings. “They’re juggling disrupted career starts, financial strain and social isolation – all adding to the mental load.”
A recent American Psychological Association report found that younger adults are more likely to feel overwhelmed and unable to cope. Nearly 70% of 18–44-year-olds said money worries were consuming their thoughts.
What can help?
Jennings suggests setting boundaries, taking screen breaks, prioritising sleep, eating well and making time for mindfulness. Employers also have a role to play by encouraging breaks, recognising hard work and fostering a healthy workplace culture.
“Burnout may be invisible at first, but its impact is deeply felt,” says Jennings. “Let’s shift from glorifying overwork to valuing mental resilience – not just during Wellness Week, but every day.”
