October Health – 2025 Report
16-17 Demographic in United States
The leading cause of stress for the 16-17 age group in the United States is academic pressure. This includes concerns about grades, standardized testing, college admissions, and balancing schoolwork with other responsibilities. Workplace-related stressors can also emerge for those with part-time jobs. Offering digital group sessions through platforms like October can help teens develop coping strategies in a supportive environment.
How mental health affects the 16-17 demographic differently
- Academic Pressure: High stakes of exams, college applications, and performance expectations.
- Identity and Self-esteem: Struggles with self-identity, peer acceptance, and body image concerns.
- Social Relationships: Navigating complex friendships, romantic relationships, and social media influence.
- Future Uncertainty: Anxiety about career choices, financial independence, and life after high school.
- Parental and Authority Expectations: Balancing desire for independence with family rules and expectations.
In a workplace context (e.g., part-time jobs or internships), they might face stress from balancing work and school, managing new responsibilities, and lacking experience or confidence. Supporting this age group with tailored digital group sessions or mental health content, like those from October, could be particularly helpful.
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.