October Health – 2025 Report

Burnout in Canada

The leading cause of burnout stress in Canada is often attributed to workplace factors, particularly high workloads, lack of support from management, and poor work-life balance. Additionally, insufficient resources and unclear job expectations can exacerbate stress levels for the workforce as a whole. Implementing systems like those offered by October can help organizations address these issues and support employee well-being.

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Burnout Prevalence
16.33%
Affected people
8,981,500

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Burnout Stress on Health and Personal Lives

  • Physical Health Issues

    • Increased risk of chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes)
    • Weakened immune system leading to more frequent illnesses
    • Sleep disturbances impacting overall rest and recovery

  • Mental Health Challenges

    • Heightened anxiety and depression symptoms
    • Reduced motivation and productivity
    • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions

  • Personal Relationships

    • Strained relationships with family and friends due to irritability or withdrawal
    • Decreased social engagement, leading to isolation
    • Challenges in maintaining a healthy work-life balance

  • Workplace Impact

    • Lower job performance and increased absenteeism
    • Higher likelihood of conflicts with coworkers
    • Greater risk of turnover and job dissatisfaction

Implementing workplace mental health programs, like those offered by October, can help manage and reduce burnout by providing support systems and resources.

Impact on the Canada Economy

  • Reduced Productivity: Employees experiencing burnout are less productive, leading to decreased output across sectors.

  • Increased Absenteeism: Higher rates of absenteeism due to burnout can strain workforce availability and disrupt business operations.

  • Higher Turnover Rates: Organizations may face increased turnover, resulting in recruitment and training costs, affecting overall employee morale.

  • Healthcare Costs: Burnout can lead to physical and mental health issues, increasing healthcare costs for individuals and employers.

  • Impact on Innovation: With a demoralized workforce, creativity and innovation may decline, stifling economic growth.

Encouraging mental health resources like those offered by October can help mitigate these effects by supporting employee well-being.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies to Lower Burnout Stress in Canada

  1. Promote Work-Life Balance

    • Encourage flexible working hours and remote work options.

  2. Mental Health Education

    • Integrate mental health awareness into school curriculums and workplace training.

  3. Employer Support Programs

    • Support initiatives like digital mental health platforms (e.g., October) to provide resources and assistance.

  4. Regular Assessments

    • Implement regular mental health assessments in workplaces to identify and address issues early.

  5. Encourage Time Off

    • Promote the importance of taking regular breaks and mental health days.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage employees to set boundaries and take breaks. Implement policies that support flexible working hours.

  • Provide Mental Health Resources: Offer access to mental health services, such as counselling and stress management workshops. Services from companies like October can be beneficial.

  • Encourage Regular Check-Ins: Foster an environment where managers routinely check in with their team members about workload and mental health.

  • Cultivate a Supportive Culture: Promote open discussions about mental health and create a safe space for employees to express their concerns.

  • Implement Team-Building Activities: Organize activities that help strengthen team relationships and provide a break from work-related stress.