October Health – 2025 Report

18-24 Demographic in Canada

The leading cause of stress for the 18-24 age group in Canada is typically related to education and employment concerns. This includes academic pressure, job insecurity, and financial challenges such as student debt. Workplace stress for young adults often stems from job instability, low wages, and lack of career development opportunities. Supporting this group with targeted mental health programs like October’s digital group sessions can be beneficial in managing these stressors effectively.

How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently

Stresses Affecting the 18-24 Age Group More Than Others

  1. Career Uncertainty

    • Pressure to choose a career path
    • Job market instability and underemployment
  2. Academic Pressures

    • Balancing studies and part-time jobs
    • Exams and performance expectations
  3. Financial Struggles

    • Student debt
    • Managing personal finances for the first time
  4. Identity and Social Pressures

    • Developing personal identity and independence
    • Peer pressure and social media impact
  5. Workplace Adaptation

    • Transitioning from education to work environments
    • Learning professional norms and managing workplace relationships

Workplace Mental Health Tip:
Employers can support this group by offering tailored onboarding programs, mentoring, and access to mental health resources like October’s digital group sessions and assessments to build resilience and coping strategies early in their careers.

Data from October Health

What's driving mental health stresses for the 18-24 demographic in South African?

Proactive mental fitness for high performance staff.

Understand the stresses and workplace challenges of your staff and provide them with the tools to protect their productivity and mental health.