October Health – 2025 Report

25-34 Demographic in United Kingdom

The leading cause of stress among the 25–34 age group in the UK is typically financial issues. This includes concerns such as student loan repayments, housing costs (particularly the difficulty in buying a home or affording rent), and managing the rising cost of living. Other significant contributors include work-related stress due to career pressures, long working hours, job insecurity, and the difficulty of achieving work-life balance, particularly for those starting families.

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How mental health affects the 25-34 demographic differently

Common Stresses Affecting the 25-34 Age Group

  1. Career Pressure

    • Building a stable career, finding job security, and managing workplace expectations.
    • Potential burnout from overwork in high-demand industries.
    • Balancing ambitions with work-life balance.

  2. Financial Stress

    • Managing student loans, rent/mortgages, and other living expenses.
    • Planning for long-term financial goals (e.g., savings, investments).
    • Rising cost of living compared to income increases.

  3. Life Transitions

    • Navigating relationships (e.g., marriage, breakups, or family planning).
    • Possible isolation when relocating for work or education.
    • Major life decisions: buying a home, starting a family, or career changes.

  4. Social Comparison and Expectations

    • Pressure from social media and societal expectations.
    • Comparing themselves to peers in terms of accomplishments, family, or wealth.

  5. Health and Lifestyle

    • Maintaining physical health while managing busy schedules.
    • Forming or sustaining healthy habits for long-term well-being.
    • Managing new or latent mental health issues such as anxiety or depression.

  6. Workplace Stress (specific to this age group)

    • Pressure to prove oneself as emerging leaders or experts in a field.
    • Experiencing imposter syndrome as responsibilities grow.
    • Limited or no access to proper mental health support in the workplace.

Suggested Support

  • Encourage employers to offer mental health resources like October digital group sessions or content to help employees learn stress management strategies.
  • Provide opportunities for career development and address financial well-being programs to ease career or monetary anxiety.
  • Promote open communication and mentorship in the workplace to reduce work-related stressors.

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.

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