October Health – 2024 Report

18-24 Demographic in Kenya

In Kenya, the leading causes of stress for individuals aged 18-24 often include educational pressures, such as the pursuit of higher education and the challenges of academic performance. Additionally, unemployment and underemployment are significant stressors, as young adults face difficulties securing stable and well-paying jobs. The transition to independence, including financial pressures and societal expectations, can also contribute to stress in this age group. Social issues, such as peer pressure and the impact of social media, further exacerbate stress levels among young adults in Kenya.

How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently

  • Academic Pressure: Many in this age range are in college or university, dealing with the stress of exams, assignments, and the pressure to achieve good grades.

  • Employment Uncertainty: Entering the workforce can be stressful due to the competitive job market and uncertainties about career direction and job security.

  • Financial Stress: Managing finances, like student loans and living expenses, can be overwhelming without stable income.

  • Identity Exploration: This age is often marked by a search for personal identity, which can cause stress as individuals try to establish who they are.

  • Social Pressures: Navigating new social environments, relationships, and peer expectations can be challenging and stressful.

  • Independence and Life Skills: Learning to live independently and manage life skills such as budgeting, cooking, and time management can be a significant stressor.

Considering these stressors, it's crucial for individuals to have support systems. Services like October can provide valuable resources and group sessions, which might help mitigate some of 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.

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