October Health – 2025 Report

18-24 Demographic in India

In India, the leading cause of stress for the 18-24 age group is academic and career-related pressure. This includes stress from competitive exams, uncertainty about career prospects, job market competition, and expectations from family. Workplace-related stress tends to begin emerging towards the later part of this age range, especially for those entering internships or first jobs. Supporting young employees with digital group sessions and mental health content, like those from October, can be beneficial in managing these stressors.

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 the right career path.
    • Fear of unemployment or underemployment.
    • Navigating first jobs and workplace dynamics.
  2. Academic Pressure

    • Completing higher education or professional courses.
    • Balancing studies with part-time work.
  3. Financial Independence

    • Managing personal finances for the first time.
    • Student loans and debt stress.
  4. Identity and Social Pressure

    • Exploring personal and social identity.
    • Peer pressure and social media comparison.
  5. Relationship Challenges

    • Developing new relationships or coping with breakups.
    • Navigating family expectations on marriage or life choices.
  6. Mental Health Awareness

    • Higher rates of anxiety and depression onset.
    • Seeking help can still feel stigmatized.

Using digital group sessions and assessments from platforms like October can help organizations support employees aged 18-24 by normalizing conversations about these stresses and providing tailored coping strategies.

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.