70% of South Africans struggle to cope with life due to stress - new study
The Ipsos World Mental Health survey reveals that stress is significantly affecting the country's workforce.
Clarence Ford speaks to health expert Vanessa Ascencao, who explains more about research which include stressed-out South Africans.
The Ipsos World Mental Health survey, based on three years of data from more than 23,000 participants across 31 countries, concentrates on the impact of stress and depression on daily functioning.
According to the study, over 70% of South Africans have faced stress levels that make it difficult to cope with life’s demands, and more than half have reported feeling so stressed over the last year, that they couldn't even work.
Our country also ranks among the highest in mental health disorders globally, the research reveals.
Meanwhile, a separate report from UNICEF shows that at least 60% of young South Africans have required mental health assistance in the past year. Persistent obstacles highlighted include limited family discussions and uncertainty about where to get help.
"There are so many challenges young people face. We are very overwhelmed and there's a lot happening in our lives."
Vanessa Ascencao, health expert
Why are South Africans so stressed?
Ascencao says the study shows key contributors to our high stress levels include poverty, unemployment, social and political unrest, abuse, and trauma stemming from exposure to violence.
"It's so important to get tools for development from experts," argues Ascencao. But South Africans lack access to mental health professionals and resources.
The stigma around mental health may also be a contributing factor, adds Ascencao.
"The stigma around mental health, where South Africans don't feel like they're comfortable enough to express that they've got an issue."
Vanessa Ascencao, health expert
Ascencao shares some tips to cultivate good habits that may have a positive effect on mental health:
- Being in nature.
- Spending some time in morning sunlight.
- Listening to inspirational podcasts.
- Having a sense of community.
- Finding a sense of purpose.
- Exercising to increase dopamine levels (happy hormones).
- Eating less refined, overly processed and high-sugar foods which can limit gut bacteria from producing more dopamine.
- Focusing on nutrition can also make a difference, since stress and nutrition could be related.
You can also find more stress-relief tips below.