October Health – 2024 Report
18-24 Demographic in Canada
The leading cause of stress for the age group 18-24 in Canada is often related to financial pressures, including concerns about student debt, housing affordability, and employment insecurity. Additionally, academic pressures for those in post-secondary education and social pressures exacerbated by social media can also contribute significantly to stress levels in this age group.
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
Unique Stresses Affecting the 18-24 Age Group
1. **Educational Pressures:**
- Balancing rigorous academic demands with social and personal life.
- Anxiety about academic performance and future career prospects.
2. **Career Uncertainty:**
- Stress related to entering the job market, including job hunting and interviews.
- Uncertainty about career paths and the pressure to succeed quickly.
3. **Financial Strain:**
- Managing debt from student loans.
- The challenge of achieving financial independence while often working low-income jobs.
4. **Identity and Independence:**
- Navigating personal identity and finding one's place in the world.
- The transition from reliance on family to self-sufficiency.
5. **Social Relationships:**
- Building and maintaining relationships, romantic and platonic.
- Coping with social media pressure and its impact on self-esteem.
6. **Mental Health Awareness:**
- Increased awareness and conversations around mental health but potential barriers to accessing support.
- Stigma associated with seeking help can discourage some from getting assistance.
For employers and educational institutions, considering support systems such as those offered by October can provide valuable resources to address these stresses.
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.