October Health – 2025 Report

Chronic illness in Canada

The leading cause of chronic illness stress in Canada is often attributed to financial strain associated with managing healthcare expenses, followed by the emotional burden of living with a chronic condition. Factors such as the healthcare system, including access to timely care and medication, as well as workplace challenges in accommodating chronic illnesses, can also contribute significantly to this stress. Additionally, societal stigma and the potential impact on family dynamics play a role. Efforts to improve public awareness and support systems, like workplace mental health programs such as those offered by October, can help mitigate stress related to chronic illness.

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Chronic illness Prevalence
4.94%
Affected people
2,717,000

Impact on the people of Canada

  • Physical Health Impact:

    • Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
    • Compromised immune system, leading to frequent infections.
    • Chronic pain or fatigue, affecting daily functionality.

  • Mental Health Impact:

    • Higher likelihood of anxiety and depression.
    • Difficulty concentrating, leading to decreased productivity.
    • Sleep disturbances, resulting in irritability and mood swings.

  • Personal Life Impact:

    • Strain on relationships due to irritability or a need for increased support.
    • Reduced ability to participate in social or recreational activities.
    • Financial stress from medical expenses or reduced work capacity.

Consider seeking support from mental health resources, like October, to manage stress effectively through assessments and group sessions.

Impact on the Canada Economy 

The effects of chronic illness stress on an economy can be significant and multifaceted:

1. **Reduced Productivity**: Chronic illness often leads to absenteeism and presenteeism, where employees are less productive due to health issues. This can result in decreased output and efficiency in the workplace.

2. **Increased Healthcare Costs**: Managing chronic illnesses requires ongoing medical care and support, leading to increased healthcare spending by individuals, employers, and government programs.

3. **Loss of Skilled Workforce**: As employees with chronic illnesses may be unable to continue in their roles or need to retire early, there can be a loss of skills and experience within the workforce.

4. **Lower Economic Participation**: Individuals with chronic illnesses may have limited capacity to participate in the economy, either through reduced working hours or inability to work, which can impact overall economic productivity.

5. **Impact on Insurance and Public Health Systems**: The demand for healthcare services and insurance claims can place a strain on both private insurers and public health systems, impacting their financial stability and ability to serve the population.

In Canada, encouraging workplace mental health support, such as through programs like October, can help mitigate these effects by improving employee well-being and productivity.

What can government do to assist? 

 Strategies to Lower Chronic Illness Stress

1. **Access to Healthcare**: Ensure that affordable and comprehensive healthcare services are available, reducing the financial burden of chronic illnesses.

2. **Patient Education**: Provide resources and education to help individuals manage their conditions better, empowering them to take control of their health.

3. **Workplace Flexibility**: Promote policies that allow for flexible work environments, including work-from-home options and adjustments for those with chronic conditions.

4. **Mental Health Support**: Offer robust mental health services that include counseling and support groups. Companies can consider services like October to support employee well-being.

5. **Community Support Programs**: Establish community initiatives that foster support networks for those affected by chronic illnesses, providing both emotional and practical assistance.

6. **Research and Innovation**: Invest in research to discover better treatments and potential cures, alleviating the long-term stress of living with a chronic condition.

7. **Nutrition and Lifestyle Education**: Promote awareness about the impact of diet and lifestyle changes that can manage or improve chronic disease symptoms.

By implementing these strategies, countries can help alleviate the stress associated with chronic illnesses and improve the quality of life for their citizens.

What can businesses do to assist their employees? 

1. **Promote a Flexible Work Environment:**
   - Allow remote work or flexible hours to help employees manage their health appointments and energy levels.

2. **Provide Comprehensive Benefits:**
   - Offer health insurance, mental health support, and access to resources that assist with managing chronic conditions.

3. **Encourage a Healthy Work-Life Balance:**
   - Promote taking regular breaks, using vacation days, and not working overtime without compensation.

4. **Support Open Communication:**
   - Foster a culture where employees feel comfortable discussing their health needs without fear of repercussions.

5. **Implement Wellness Programs:**
   - Create mind-body wellness programs, including stress management workshops and chronic illness support groups.

6. **Educate and Train Management:**
   - Train managers to recognize signs of chronic illness stress and respond supportively.

7. **Leverage Digital Mental Health Solutions:**
   - Consider partnering with companies like October to provide group sessions, assessments, and mental health content tailored to employees with chronic conditions.