October Health – 2026 Report
18-24 Demographic in Canada
In Canada, the leading cause of stress reported by the population aged 18–24 is financial insecurity and debt. This includes concerns over paying bills, student loans, and overall cost of living. Consider workplace supports such as financial wellness resources, clear pay structures, and access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs) or digital mental health platforms like October for group sessions and assessments. If relevant, discuss with HR about creating financial literacy sessions and stress management workshops.
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
- Academic and career uncertainty: pressures from finishing school, choosing a career path, internships, and entry-level job competition.
- Financial stress: student loans, debt, budgeting on limited income, accelerating cost of living.
- Social and identity pressures: navigating friendships, dating, self-esteem, body image, and uncertainty about belonging.
- Mental health stigma and access: hesitation to seek help, privacy concerns, and limited awareness of available resources.
- Housing instability: finding affordable housing, roommates, or moving away from family.
- Technology and social media: comparison, online harassment, doomscrolling, and impact on sleep.
- Transition-related anxiety: adjusting to independence, time management, and establishing routines.
- Academic or work-life balance: managing study hours with part-time work and social activities.
- Sleep disruption: irregular schedules from late-night studying or shifts affecting mood and concentration.
- Coping with setbacks: performance pressure, exam failures, or not meeting personal expectations.
Notes:
- If workplace support is relevant, consider mental health days, flexible scheduling, and access to digital mental health tools like October for group sessions and assessments.
- In Canada, emphasize confidential access to Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and provincial student services where available.
Data from October Health
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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.