South Africa faces some of the world’s highest workplace burnout and mental health challenges, costing the economy over R160 billion annually through absenteeism, productivity loss, high staff turnover, and even early death. Despite widespread adoption of wellness programmes, many companies lack tools to measure the true impact of these initiatives on employee mental health.
In a groundbreaking development, the Gordon Institute of Business (GIBS) and October Health have introduced South Africa’s first scientifically validated Employee Well-being Index Report. Co-founder of October Health, Alon Lits, describes the report as a vital tool for employers to assess and enhance the mental and social health of their teams. “This report provides an empirically tested benchmark that empowers businesses to make data-driven decisions supporting both mental health and productivity. It’s a game-changer for companies dedicated to fostering positive work cultures,” says Lits.
Offering comprehensive insights into mental, emotional, social, and financial well-being, the Employee Well-being Index Report analyses key factors influencing workplace satisfaction and productivity, breaking down data by industry, income levels, and demographics. The report’s first edition will be unveiled at GIBS in Johannesburg on 30 October, aligning with South Africa’s Mental Health Awareness Month.
Alison Reid, Head of GIBS’s PAL (Personal Applied Learning) Programme, highlights the report’s significance: “We can’t improve what we don’t measure. This first-of-its-kind report offers validated, sector-specific insights to drive positive organisational change. Attendees will gain clear, actionable strategies for supporting employee well-being.”
The launch event will also feature expert panel discussions and showcase industry-specific findings to address unique well-being challenges across sectors. From retail to finance, well-being metrics will cover critical aspects like financial stress and emotional health, offering businesses a clear understanding of issues affecting workplace satisfaction and retention.
Reid concludes, “Our vision is to drive positive, measurable change. The Employee Well-being Index is a toolkit for building healthier, more engaged workplaces. As more organisations acknowledge the link between employee well-being and performance, this report provides a path to enhancing internal culture and business outcomes across South Africa.”