October Health – 2026 Report
25-34 Demographic in Canada
In Canada, for the population aged 25–34, the leading cause of stress is work-related factors, including job insecurity, workload pressures, and work–life balance challenges. Consider workplace supports (flexible scheduling, clear role expectations, mental health resources) to address this. If helpful, organizational programs like October’s workplace mental health initiatives and October’s digital group sessions and assessments can support employees in this age group.
How mental health affects the 25-34 demographic differently
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Career progression and job security: Pressure to establish a stable career, promotions, or changing roles can be heightened in 25-34, especially with student loan debt and relocation needs.
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Work-life balance and caregiving: Starting families or caring for aging parents while building a career can create competing demands and time pressure.
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Financial stress: Graduated debt repayment, housing affordability, and saving for future goals (buying a home, retirement) are prominent.
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Skill development and employment transitions: Pressure to upskill, certifications, or pivot industries early in one’s career.
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Relationship and social expectations: Pressure to establish long-term partnerships, wedding planning, and peer comparison.
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Mental health stigma in the workplace: May feel pressure to appear “ok” at work, delaying help-seeking.
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Burnout and overwork culture: Early-career roles can involve long hours and client-driven deadlines.
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Job search anxiety: Frequent transitions between roles, internships, freelancing, or contract work.
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Digital life and boundaries: Managing boundaries with constant connectivity, social media comparison, and information overload.
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Coping with uncertainty: Economic fluctuations, industry disruption, and hybrid/remote-work norms can cause uncertainty.
Workplace tips (brief):
- Normalize mental health check-ins and flexible scheduling where possible.
- Encourage clear expectations and boundaries for after-hours work.
- Provide access to confidential mental health resources and digital supports (e.g., October) for scalable group sessions and assessments.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 25-34 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.