October Health – 2025 Report

Self-esteem in Canada

The leading cause of self-esteem stress in Canada is often attributed to societal pressures, including unrealistic beauty standards, social comparisons influenced by social media, and workplace expectations related to achievement and success. Work-related factors, such as job insecurity and performance pressure, further contribute to this collective stress around self-esteem.

Self-esteem Prevalence
25.88%
Affected people
14,234,000

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Self-Esteem Stress on Health and Personal Lives

  1. Mental Health Issues: High self-esteem stress can lead to anxiety, depression, and burnout due to constant pressure to maintain a positive self-image.

  2. Interpersonal Relationships: Individuals may experience increased conflicts or withdrawal from social interactions, as the need to appear "perfect" can hinder authentic connections.

  3. Physical Health: Chronic stress from maintaining high self-esteem can lead to physical health issues such as headaches, digestive problems, and weakened immune response.

  4. Work Performance: High levels of self-esteem stress may cause decreased productivity and creativity, as the fear of failure can paralyze decision-making.

  5. Lifestyle Choices: People might engage in unhealthy coping strategies, such as overworking, substance use, or neglecting physical health, exacerbating overall well-being.

Consider exploring resources like those offered by October, which provide digital sessions on managing stress and improving mental health in the workplace.

Impact on the Canada Economy

  • Reduced Productivity: High self-esteem stress can lead to decreased motivation and job satisfaction, resulting in lower overall productivity within the workforce.

  • Increased Absenteeism: Employees struggling with high self-esteem stress may take more sick days or may be less present mentally, affecting team dynamics and productivity.

  • Higher Turnover Rates: Workers may leave jobs due to unresolved self-esteem issues, leading to increased hiring and training costs for companies.

  • Impact on Team Dynamics: High self-esteem stress can create a toxic work environment, diminishing collaboration and fostering conflict among employees.

  • Economic Inequality: If certain groups experience higher levels of self-esteem stress, it may contribute to social and economic disparities, affecting overall economic growth.

Consider using resources like October and October for group sessions and assessments to help employees manage mental health challenges related to self-esteem in the workplace.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies for a Country to Lower Self-Esteem Stress

  1. Promote Mental Health Education: Introduce programs in schools and workplaces to educate individuals about self-esteem and its impact on mental health.

  2. Increase Access to Counseling: Fund mental health services and provide easy access to counseling, particularly in workplaces, to help individuals address self-esteem issues.

  3. Encourage Positive Media Campaigns: Launch campaigns that celebrate diversity, individuality, and realistic portrayals of success to combat negative societal pressures.

  4. Foster Inclusive Work Environments: Encourage businesses to implement diversity and inclusion training, ensuring all employees feel valued and respected.

  5. Support Community Programs: Fund community-based initiatives that provide support groups or workshops focusing on self-esteem and personal development.

Consider utilizing resources from organizations like October and October for workplace mental health support and group sessions.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Create a Positive Work Environment: Encourage open communication, recognition, and support among colleagues to foster a sense of belonging.

  • Implement Regular Feedback: Provide constructive feedback regularly to help employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement without diminishing self-esteem.

  • Offer Mental Health Resources: Utilize platforms like October for group sessions and assessments focused on building self-esteem and resilience.

  • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage employees to take breaks and prioritize personal time to reduce stress and improve overall well-being.

  • Provide Training Programs: Organize workshops on self-esteem, confidence building, and stress management techniques.