Stress, financial well-being increasingly affecting Kenyans: Study

Findings from the Cigna International Health Study 2025 indicate that Kenya recorded a vitality score of 79.3 in 2025, placing it third globally and well above the global average of 63.2. 

The score remained largely unchanged from the previous year, suggesting resilience in overall well-being.

However, beneath that strong performance, the report paints a picture of a population grappling with mounting day-to-day pressures.

38 per cent of Kenyans identified mental health as their top priority, significantly higher than the global average of 25 per cent. 

At the same time, 87 per cent of respondents reported experiencing stress, largely driven by financial challenges and the rising cost of living.

“You see a country that is still resilient, but clearly under strain,” said Leah Cotterill. 

“Pressure around financial wellbeing, stress and access to care is becoming more pronounced, even as overall vitality remains high," added Cotterill.

The study, which surveyed more than 13,000 people across 13 countries, also found that financial well-being remains the weakest area in Kenya, scoring just 15 per cent, which is far below global levels. 

Younger adults aged between 18 and 24 were found to be the most affected, reporting the highest stress levels alongside declines in mental, physical and family wellbeing.

At the same time, access to healthcare continues to be a major concern.

According to the report, 39 per cent of Kenyans said they needed medical care in the past year but did not receive it, while 40 per cent were unable to access prescribed medication due to cost. 

The gaps, the study notes, are not only affecting health outcomes but also productivity and quality of life.

Despite these challenges, the findings point to strong optimism around the role of technology in healthcare. 

Kenya emerged as the most optimistic country globally regarding the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare, with 78 per cent of respondents expressing positive expectations.

Cotterill said the optimism reflects a growing demand for solutions that can address delays and improve access to care. 

“There is a clear appetite for more accessible and responsive healthcare systems, particularly as everyday pressures intensify,” she said.

The workplace also reflects this mixed picture. 

While many employees reported long working hours and ongoing stress, overall job satisfaction remained broadly in line with global averages.

Nearly half of the respondents ranked healthcare benefits as the most important support employers can offer.

The report highlights a country that continues to demonstrate strong social and personal resilience, but where underlying pressures, especially around finances, mental health and access to care, are steadily building.