Stress levels surge as South Africans face a year-end crunch

As the festive season approaches, South Africa finds itself grappling with an escalating tide of stress, as detailed in the latest PURA Beverage State of South Africa Stress Report.

Released in early December 2025, the report analyses over 100,000 online conversations, underscoring how daily life has become an intricate web of struggles, from traffic woes and family obligations to the quest for the trendiest restaurant.

The findings are clear: 54% of mentions reflect a negative sentiment, solidifying stress as a national mood.

Yet, amid the overwhelming demands of modern life, the iconic resilience of South Africans shines through.

Humor, honesty, and a touch of sarcasm are the beacons that guide many through turbulent waters.

Well-known figures such as Katinka Oosthuisen and Troy Sheperds have emerged as champions of this spirit, using their platforms to lampoon the societal pressures that weigh heavily on many.

Their witty takes on impossible fitness regimes, curated social media presences, and the incessant hustle all serve a dual purpose, entertaining and reminding the public that they are not alone in feeling overwhelmed.

“We’re living in a world that’s dialled up to eleven, where every day feels like another demand to optimise, transform or keep up,” said Greig Jansen, CEO of PURA Beverage Co.

“But life doesn’t have to be a lot. At PURA, we believe in the power of small, meaningful choices to bring refreshing joy back into everyday moments.”

What's stressing South Africa out the most?

• Work and burnout: 46% of discussions centre on the relentless end-of-year hustle.
• Family and social obligations: 14% of stress revolves around holiday preparations and obligations.
• Financial concerns and transport issues: Each accounts for 11% of the sentiments shared.
• School stress: With reports looming, a hefty 8% of mentions relate to educational pressures.

This collective anxiety manifests in countless everyday interactions—from petrol prices to potholes, and from video calls to group chats, everything feels like a demand on our limited joy.

Geographical differences in stress perception

The report also reveals how location plays a pivotal role in shaping stress experiences.

In Cape Town, conversations may touch on stress-relief strategies like yoga or beach strolls, but the city is not immune to pressures of its own, from the relentless quest for a perfect lifestyle to the social climbing of ‘moms of the prom’.

“Stress is everywhere. Cape Town just dresses it up with sunsets,” Sheperds said.

Meanwhile, Johannesburg residents maintain a bustling pace; “Even if we must pencil in relaxation between meetings,” he adds, highlighting the city’s unique approach to stress management.

Finding solace in small joys

In the face of overwhelming pressures, South Africans are turning to simple, restorative rituals to foster resilience. The PURA report indicates that more people are:

• Tuning out distractions, even if just for a moment
• Seeking solace in nature, especially near coastal areas
• Gathering with loved ones to share meals, laughter, and music

The takeaway? Small pockets of relief can yield significant benefits for the spirit.

“We don’t want to distract people from their real lives; we want to brighten them,” Jansen said.

“A sip of something refreshing, a laugh, a moment of calm, those little things keep us going.”

As South Africa navigates a complex landscape of stress, perhaps the simple act of choosing joy can prevail in the midst of life's challenges.

BUSINESS REPORT