Introduction

“Individual wellbeing doesn’t live in isolation—it’s a function of culture, leadership, skills, and our holistic health.”

This year’s Index builds on strong momentum with a richer view of how employees are really doing—and what they need next. Overall wellbeing in the South African workforce improved from 69 to 75 this year.

• Mental, physical, emotional, and social wellbeing all strengthened
• Financial wellbeing improved the most (+8 points)
• Yet fewer employees describe their workplace as “very healthy”
• More are uncertain about their culture—an early retention risk

Employees don’t want “programme-first” wellbeing—they want healthy culture, leaders who walk the talk, equipped managers, predictability and psychological safety, and support that reflects real-life pressures.