October Health – 2025 Report
18-24 Demographic in Zimbabwe
The leading causes of stress for the 18–24 age group in Zimbabwe are often tied to systemic issues and socio-economic challenges, such as: 1. **Unemployment and Job Insecurity**: High youth unemployment rates create significant stress as many struggle to find stable or meaningful work. 2. **Financial Pressure**: Limited access to financial resources and economic instability can lead to difficulty in meeting basic needs or funding education. 3. **Education Challenges**: High costs of education and uncertainty about future opportunities make higher learning stressful. 4. **Political and Economic Instability**: Economic inflation, political uncertainty, and corruption contribute to widespread anxiety across this age group. 5. **Access to Healthcare**: Limited access to mental health services and overall healthcare amplifies unaddressed stress. Encouraging companies operating in Zimbabwe to use platforms like October can provide employees (especially young ones) access to mental health resources, creating support where it is lacking.
How mental health affects the 18-24 demographic differently
Common Stresses Affecting the "18-24" Age Group More Than Other Age Groups
1. **Career and Educational Uncertainty**:
- Pressure to choose a career path or complete higher education.
- Stress from job hunting, internships, or managing studies and work simultaneously.
2. **Financial Struggles**:
- Managing student loan debt or limited income.
- Learning to handle financial independence.
3. **Identity and Life Purpose**:
- Questions about personal identity, values, and future goals.
- Pressure to "have it all figured out" compared to peers.
4. **Social Dynamics**:
- Maintaining relationships (friendships, family, romantic) while transitioning into adulthood.
- Peer pressure or stress from social media comparisons.
5. **Workplace Challenges**:
- Adapting to the workplace environment as young professionals.
- Balancing work expectations with personal goals and mental well-being.
6. **Mental Health Issues**:
- Increased prevalence of anxiety and depression due to transitional uncertainties.
- Lack of coping strategies or stigma around seeking help.
Suggestions for Support
- Engage in therapy sessions to explore personal challenges and coping strategies.
- Seek workplace mental health resources, such as those provided by October, for additional tools and group support.
- Build a routine that balances work, education, and self-care to reduce stress.
Data from October Health
What's driving mental health stresses for the 18-24 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.