October Health – 2026 Report
18-24 Demographic in Eswatini
In Eswatini, for the population aged 18–24, the leading cause of stress is financial insecurity and unemployment concerns.
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
- Academic and career uncertainty: pressure to choose a path, internships, graduate programs, or first jobs in a competitive market.
- Financial strain: student loans, part-time work, budgeting in a high-cost living area, and starting independence.
- Identity and belonging: navigating cultural, gender, or sexuality identities; fitting in at work or university; social acceptance.
- Mental health stigma and access: limited awareness of services, concerns about confidentiality, and cost barriers.
- Relationship transitions: starting new friendships, dating, long-distance relationships, and moving away from family.
- Skill development and self-efficacy: building confidence in new responsibilities, time management, and resilience.
- Digital life pressures: social media comparison, online harassment, and information overload.
- Work-life balance in early careers: managing long hours, internships, and studying simultaneously.
- Safety and environment: campus or workplace safety, transportation concerns, and housing instability.
- Future planning and autonomy: feeling pressured to “have it all figured out” soon, leading to anxiety.
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.