Financial stress is the top contributor to poor mental health across every generation in South Africa, according to a new survey by private hospital group Mediclinic. Between 59% and 66% of respondents in each generation cited it as a cause. Moreover, 45% said they had never used a mental healthcare provider, partly because of cost and partly because of stigma.
Mediclinic's generational health survey drew on residents beyond its patient base in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, the Free State, Limpopo and the Western Cape. According to Mediclinic Southern Africa CEO Braam Joubert, the findings support trends seen in its hospitals. He said the survey offers a local reference source, as much health data may not reflect South African experiences.