October Health – 2025 Report

Anxiety in Canada

The leading causes of anxiety and stress in Canada for the population include economic concerns, job-related stress, and social isolation. Economic factors such as inflation and the cost of living contribute significantly to widespread anxiety. Workplace pressures, including job security and workload, also play a crucial role. Additionally, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has increased feelings of isolation and uncertainty, further exacerbating anxiety levels in the population. Encouraging workplaces to implement mental health support initiatives, like those offered by October and October, can help address these issues effectively.

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Anxiety Prevalence
32.79%
Affected people
18,034,500

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Anxiety and Stress on Health and Personal Lives

  1. Physical Health Issues:

    • Increased risk of heart disease and hypertension.
    • Weakened immune system, leading to more frequent illnesses.
    • Gastrointestinal problems, including irritable bowel syndrome.

  2. Mental Health Challenges:

    • Heightened symptoms of anxiety disorders and depression.
    • Impaired cognitive functions, including memory and decision-making.

  3. Workplace Impact:

    • Decreased productivity and performance.
    • Increased absenteeism and presenteeism.
    • Strained relationships with colleagues and supervisors.

  4. Personal Life Consequences:

    • Difficulty maintaining relationships with family and friends.
    • Reduced participation in social activities, leading to isolation.
    • Neglect of self-care and personal interests.

It's important for workplaces to address these issues by providing support, such as mental health resources and programs like those offered by October and October, to help employees manage stress and anxiety effectively.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Anxiety Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity
    High levels of anxiety can lead to decreased employee performance and efficiency, resulting in lower overall productivity for businesses.

  2. Increased Healthcare Costs
    Anxiety-related health issues can lead to higher medical expenses for both employees and employers, placing a financial strain on the healthcare system.

  3. Higher Absenteeism
    Employees suffering from anxiety may take more sick days, contributing to increased absenteeism and disrupting workplace operations.

  4. Employee Turnover
    High anxiety can create a toxic work environment, leading to higher turnover rates as employees leave for less stressful opportunities.

  5. Decreased Consumer Spending
    Anxiety can affect consumers’ confidence and willingness to spend, which can slow down economic growth as businesses generate less revenue.

  6. Increased Need for Mental Health Services
    A rise in anxiety may lead to increased demand for mental health services, impacting public services and creating a need for organizations like October to support workplace mental health initiatives.

What can government do to assist?

  1. Promote Mental Health Awareness: Launch national campaigns to educate the public about anxiety and stress management.

  2. Increase Access to Mental Health Services: Ensure widespread availability of affordable mental health services, including counseling and therapy.

  3. Support Workplace Mental Health Programs: Encourage businesses to implement employee assistance programs (EAPs) and provide mental health resources, like those from October or October.

  4. Enhance Work-Life Balance: Introduce policies that promote flexible working hours and remote work options to reduce workplace stress.

  5. Encourage Physical Activity: Support community programs that promote physical health, as exercise is linked to reduced anxiety levels.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Implement Flexible Work Hours: Allow employees to adjust their schedules to improve work-life balance and reduce stress.

  • Promote a Healthy Work Environment: Ensure that the workplace is ergonomically friendly and offers peaceful spaces for breaks.

  • Provide Mental Health Resources: Offer access to mental health programs like those from October, including group sessions and assessments.

  • Encourage Open Communication: Foster an environment where employees feel safe to discuss their anxiety and stress without stigma.

  • Organize Wellness Activities: Introduce stress-relief activities such as yoga, meditation sessions, or team-building exercises.