October Health – 2025 Report
16-17 Demographic in Namibia
The leading cause of stress for the 16-17 age group in Namibia is often related to academic pressure and future uncertainty. This includes stress from school performance, exams, and concerns about access to higher education or employment opportunities. Additionally, socio-economic challenges and family financial instability contribute significantly to stress in this age group. To support this demographic in the workplace or educational settings, introducing stress management programs and providing access to mental health resources like October’s digital group sessions could be very beneficial.
How mental health affects the 16-17 demographic differently
- Academic Pressure: Exams, grades, and future education/career choices can cause significant stress.
- Identity and Self-Esteem: Struggles with self-image, fitting in, and peer acceptance are heightened.
- Social Relationships: Navigating friendships, romantic interests, and sometimes bullying or social exclusion.
- Family Expectations: Pressure from family regarding behavior, academics, or future plans.
- Transition to Adulthood: Anxiety about increased responsibilities and planning for independence.
In a workplace context for this age group (e.g., part-time jobs or internships), balancing work and studies, dealing with workplace social dynamics, and managing new responsibilities can add stress. Group sessions or digital content from a platform like October could help normalize these experiences and build coping strategies.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 16-17 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.