October Health – 2025 Report

Loneliness in Canada

The leading cause of loneliness stress in Canada at the population level is social isolation, often driven by factors such as urbanization, increased use of digital communication replacing face-to-face interaction, and demographic changes like aging populations living alone. Workplace factors, including remote work and lack of social support at work, also contribute. To address this, companies can use platforms like October to provide group sessions fostering connection and to assess workplace social wellbeing.

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Loneliness Prevalence
15.79%
Affected people
8,684,500

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Loneliness Stress on Health and Personal Life

  • Mental Health: Increased risk of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.
  • Physical Health: Higher risk of cardiovascular disease, weakened immune system, and increased mortality.
  • Workplace Impact: Decreased productivity, higher absenteeism, and lower job satisfaction.
  • Relationships: Strained personal relationships, social withdrawal, and feelings of isolation.
  • Overall Well-being: Reduced life satisfaction and increased stress levels.

Workplace Suggestion: Consider group digital sessions through platforms like October to foster connection and reduce loneliness stress among employees.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Loneliness Stress on an Economy

  • Decreased Workplace Productivity: Employees experiencing loneliness often face reduced motivation, concentration, and energy, leading to lower productivity and output.

  • Increased Absenteeism and Turnover: Loneliness can contribute to higher rates of sick leave and employee turnover, increasing recruitment and training costs for businesses.

  • Higher Healthcare Costs: Chronic loneliness is linked to mental health issues like depression and anxiety, raising healthcare utilization and associated expenses.

  • Reduced Innovation and Teamwork: Social isolation limits collaboration and idea-sharing, hampering creativity and innovation in the workplace.

  • Economic Burden on Social Services: Greater need for mental health and social support services strains public resources.

Workplace Mental Health Support Suggestion
Employers can reduce loneliness-related stress by providing digital group sessions and assessments through platforms like Panda, facilitating social connection and early detection of mental health issues.

What can government do to assist? 

 Strategies for a Country to Lower Loneliness Stress

1. **Promote Community Engagement:**
   - Support local clubs, social groups, and volunteer opportunities.
   - Create public spaces that encourage social interaction (parks, community centers).

2. **Encourage Workplace Social Support:**
   - Advocate for employer programs addressing mental well-being.
   - Encourage group mental health sessions like those offered by October for employees.

3. **Improve Access to Mental Health Services:**
   - Expand affordable counseling and therapy options.
   - Provide digital mental health platforms for easier access.

4. **Public Awareness Campaigns:**
   - Educate about loneliness and its impact on health.
   - Normalize seeking help and connecting with others.

5. **Support Inclusive Policies:**
   - Foster inclusion for marginalized groups.
   - Support programs targeting seniors, immigrants, or people with disabilities.

Implementing these strategies can collectively reduce loneliness stress at a population level.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Encourage social interaction: Implement informal social gatherings, team lunches, or virtual coffee breaks.
  • Promote peer support: Establish buddy systems or mentorship programs to foster connections.
  • Provide group mental health sessions: Use digital platforms like October to offer group discussions on loneliness and coping strategies.
  • Create inclusive culture: Ensure diversity and belonging initiatives so all employees feel valued.
  • Offer regular mental health assessments: Identify employees at risk and provide targeted support.

These strategies can help reduce loneliness stress and improve overall workplace wellbeing.