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 stress is often compounded by worries about social acceptance and identity. In workplace contexts for young people (such as apprenticeships or part-time jobs), balancing work and study can also contribute. Offering group sessions through platforms like October can help young people develop coping strategies and resilience.
How mental health affects the 16-17 demographic differently
- Academic pressure: GCSEs/A-Levels and future career decisions create significant stress.
- Social identity and peer relationships: Forming identity, fitting in, and bullying are more intense.
- Family expectations and conflict: Negotiating independence while managing family dynamics.
- Mental health awareness: Emerging symptoms of anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues.
- Transition stress: Moving from school to further education, work, or apprenticeships.
- Digital/social media pressures: Cyberbullying and comparison often peak in this age group.
Workplace relevance:
For employers offering part-time roles or apprenticeships to 16-17-year-olds, consider flexible schedules, mental health support via digital group sessions like October, and clear communication about expectations.
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.