October Health – 2025 Report
25-34 Demographic in South Africa
The leading causes of stress in the age group 25-34 in South Africa include: 1. **Unemployment and job insecurity:** A high unemployment rate and lack of stable job opportunities cause financial stress and uncertainty for many in this age group. 2. **Financial pressures:** With responsibilities such as student loans, supporting family members, and the high cost of living, financial strain is a major factor. 3. **Workplace challenges:** For those employed, stressful work environments, long hours, and limited advancement opportunities contribute significantly. 4. **Housing affordability:** Difficulty accessing safe and affordable housing adds to the stress. 5. **Social pressures:** Societal expectations around career progression, starting families, and achieving life milestones can heighten stress. 6. **Crime and safety concerns:** High crime rates and safety issues in certain areas contribute to ongoing anxiety and stress. Encouraging workplace mental health initiatives, such as those offered by October, can help address workplace-related stressors effectively.
How mental health affects the 25-34 demographic differently
Stress Factors Affecting Ages 25-34 More Than Other Age Groups
1. **Career Pressures**
- Navigating career growth and stability.
- Balancing work-life priorities.
- Facing burnout due to long hours or high expectations.
2. **Financial Stress**
- Managing student loans or debt.
- Achieving financial independence.
- Pressure to save for long-term goals (e.g., homeownership, retirement).
3. **Relationship and Family Planning**
- Establishing long-term relationships or dealing with marriage pressures.
- Deciding whether to start a family and/or managing early parenthood.
4. **Social Comparisons**
- Pressure from societal expectations and social media comparisons.
- Feeling inadequate due to peers’ achievements.
5. **Identity and Purpose**
- Struggling with finding purpose and aligning personal values with life choices.
- Questioning long-term goals and career directions.
Support Suggestions for Employees in This Group
- Encourage them to attend support spaces like October’s digital group sessions on work-life balance or stress management.
- Provide financial literacy tools or workshops.
- Implement flexible working options to support balance and reduce burnout.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 25-34 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.