October Health – 2026 Report
18-24 Demographic in South Africa
In South Africa, the leading cause of stress for the 18–24 age group is academic and career-related pressures (university/college demands, job prospects, and financial concerns tied to studies).
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
- Academic and career pressure: exams, GPA, internships, job market uncertainty, and salary expectations.
- Financial stress: student loans, budgeting, part-time work, and debt management.
- Identity and belonging: navigating independence, peer pressure, and social acceptance in new environments.
- Mental health stigma: reluctance to seek help, especially in informal or academic settings.
- Time management and burnout: balancing studies, part-time work, social life, and self-care.
- Relationship stress: navigating dating, friendships, breakups, and family expectations.
- Technology and social media impact: comparison, cyberbullying, digital distraction, and sleep disruption.
- Transitions and uncertainty: moving away from home, choosing majors or careers, and lack of clear future plans.
- Safety concerns: campus or urban environment stress, crime, and personal safety.
- Health and lifestyle: sleep deprivation, nutrition, physical activity, and self-care routines.
If helpful, I can tailor brief workplace-relevant tips or suggest digital resources (e.g., group sessions or assessments) suitable for supporting employees in this age group.
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.