October Health – 2025 Report
18-24 Demographic in Kenya
For the age group 18-24 in Kenya, the leading causes of stress are typically: 1. **Unemployment or lack of stable income**: With limited job opportunities, many young people experience financial insecurity. 2. **Educational pressure**: Academic demands, high expectations, or struggles to access quality education are sources of stress. 3. **Economic instability**: Broader economic challenges in Kenya often directly impact young people's lives. 4. **Family and societal expectations**: Cultural and familial pressures to succeed or conform to specific life milestones can be overwhelming. 5. **Mental health stigma**: Limited support and widespread stigma can exacerbate mental health-related stress. Encouraging workplace wellness initiatives or resources like those provided by October can help if employers aim to support young employees' mental health effectively.
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
Stresses Affecting the Age Group 18-24 More Than Other Ages
1. **Academic Pressures**
- Balancing studies, exams, and maintaining grades in university or college settings.
- Uncertainty about career paths and future opportunities.
2. **Economic and Financial Stress**
- Burden of student loans or lack of financial independence.
- Difficulty entering the job market or securing stable employment.
3. **Identity and Self-Exploration**
- Pressure to establish personal identity, values, and beliefs.
- Navigating relationships and friendships while managing social comparison.
4. **Mental Health Challenges**
- Higher susceptibility to issues like anxiety, depression, and self-esteem struggles.
- Fear of missing out (FOMO) driven by social media usage.
5. **Transition into Adulthood**
- Adjusting to increased responsibilities and independence.
- Struggling with time and energy management across work, study, and personal life.
6. **Social and Peer Pressures**
- Impact of peer influence on decision-making.
- Higher levels of exposure to cyberbullying and online scrutiny.
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**Mental Health Support Tip:** Platforms like October can offer resources such as group support sessions and assessments that may help young adults navigate these challenges effectively.
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.