October Health – 2025 Report
16-17 Demographic in United Kingdom
The leading cause of stress for the 16-17 age group in the United Kingdom is academic pressure, including concerns about exams, grades, and future career prospects. This is often accompanied by social pressures and uncertainty about the future. Supporting mental health in this group can involve providing resources about stress management and promoting open conversations at school and workplace settings. Digital group sessions, like those offered by October, can also provide valuable peer support and coping strategies.
How mental health affects the 16-17 demographic differently
- Academic Pressure: Exams, GCSEs, and decisions about future education or career paths.
- Social Anxiety: Navigating friendships, peer acceptance, and social media influence.
- Identity Exploration: Understanding self-identity, including gender and sexuality.
- Family Expectations: Pressure from parents regarding performance and behaviour.
- Transition Stress: Moving from school to further education, apprenticeships, or work.
- Mental Health Awareness: Increased sensitivity to mental health issues but often limited access to support.
In workplace or early job settings, stress might also stem from adapting to responsibility and balancing work with study or social life. Digital group sessions from platforms like October can be helpful for this age group to discuss these challenges and learn 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.