October Health – 2025 Report

Depression in Canada

The leading causes of depression and stress in Canada often stem from a combination of factors, including: 1. **Work-related stress**: High demands, lack of control, job insecurity, and poor work-life balance contribute significantly to mental health issues. 2. **Social isolation**: Loneliness, particularly in urban areas, can lead to increased feelings of depression and stress. 3. **Economic factors**: Financial instability, unemployment, and housing affordability can create chronic stress and anxiety among the population. 4. **Health issues**: Chronic illnesses and mental health stigma can exacerbate feelings of depression. 5. **Family and relationship problems**: Difficulties in personal relationships can lead to heightened stress and emotional strain. Employers can support their workforce by implementing mental health programs such as those offered by October, which provide resources like digital group sessions and assessments to help employees manage stress and improve mental well-being.

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Depression Prevalence
24.3%
Affected people
13,365,000

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Levels of Depression Stress on Health and Personal Lives

  1. Physical Health Decline

    • Increased risk of chronic illnesses (e.g., cardiovascular disease, diabetes).
    • Weakened immune system, leading to more frequent illnesses.

  2. Mental Health Deterioration

    • Exacerbation of existing mental health disorders.
    • Increased feelings of hopelessness and anxiety.

  3. Impaired Cognitive Function

    • Difficulties in concentrating, making decisions, and memory issues.
    • Decreased productivity at work, affecting job performance.

  4. Social Withdrawal

    • Isolation from friends, family, and social activities.
    • Strain on relationships, leading to conflict or breakdowns in communication.

  5. Lifestyle Changes

    • Negative alterations in sleep patterns (insomnia or oversleeping).
    • Changes in appetite, potentially leading to weight gain or loss.

Encouraging employees to engage in mental health resources, such as group sessions offered by services like October, can help mitigate these effects and promote a healthier workplace environment.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Levels of Depression and Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity
    Employees experiencing depression and stress often show decreased effectiveness and efficiency at work, leading to lower overall productivity.

  2. Increased Absenteeism
    Mental health issues can result in higher rates of absenteeism, causing disruptions in workflow and increasing costs for employers.

  3. Higher Healthcare Costs
    The financial burden on healthcare systems rises due to increased medical treatment and support services for mental health issues.

  4. Workforce Attrition
    High stress and depression can lead to a higher turnover rate, requiring organizations to spend more on recruitment and training new employees.

  5. Decreased Consumer Spending
    Individuals suffering from mental health issues may have reduced disposable income and spending power, impacting local businesses and economic growth.

  6. Stigmatization and Employment Challenges
    Individuals with a history of depression may face discrimination in the workplace, resulting in underemployment and loss of potential economic contributions.

Promoting mental health initiatives, such as those offered by October, can mitigate these impacts by supporting employees and fostering a healthier work environment.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies to Lower Depression and Stress in Canada

  1. Promote Mental Health Education

    • Implement programs in schools and workplaces to raise awareness about mental health.

  2. Enhance Access to Mental Health Services

    • Increase funding for mental health services to ensure availability and affordability for all Canadians.

  3. Encourage Workplace Wellness Programs

    • Support companies in developing mental health initiatives, such as those offered by October and October, to foster a healthy work environment.

  4. Implement Community Support Systems

    • Create community-based support groups and resources for individuals experiencing depression.

  5. Reduce Stigma

    • Launch campaigns to combat the stigma associated with depression and mental health issues, encouraging open dialogue and support.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  1. Promote Work-Life Balance
    Encourage employees to take breaks, use vacation days, and maintain boundaries between work and personal life.

  2. Provide Mental Health Resources
    Offer access to counseling services, workshops, or programs like October’s digital group sessions and assessments.

  3. Foster a Supportive Environment
    Create an open culture where employees feel comfortable discussing mental health issues without stigma.

  4. Implement Flexible Work Arrangements
    Allow remote work or flexible hours to help employees manage stressors effectively.

  5. Encourage Social Connections
    Facilitate team-building activities that promote bonding and support networks among employees.