October Health – 2025 Report

Self-esteem in Canada

The leading cause of self-esteem stress in Canada is often linked to societal pressures, including unrealistic beauty standards, social media influence, and workplace expectations. These factors contribute to feelings of inadequacy and lower self-worth among various demographic groups. Additionally, economic uncertainty and job-related stress can exacerbate self-esteem issues in the workforce. Implementing supportive programs, such as those offered by October, can help address these challenges by fostering a positive work environment and encouraging open discussions about mental health.

Self-esteem Prevalence
25.41%
Affected people
13,975,500

Impact on the people of Canada

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

  1. Anxiety and Depression: Elevated self-esteem stress can lead to increased anxiety and depressive symptoms as individuals may fear failing to meet their own or others' expectations.

  2. Physical Health Issues: Chronic stress can contribute to headaches, gastrointestinal problems, and cardiovascular issues due to the body's prolonged stress response.

  3. Relationship Strain: Overemphasis on maintaining high self-esteem can lead to competitiveness and a lack of empathy in personal relationships, creating conflicts or feelings of isolation.

  4. Burnout: The pressure to constantly perform at a high level can result in burnout, leading to exhaustion and disengagement from both work and personal activities.

  5. Reduced Life Satisfaction: Individuals may find themselves less satisfied with life overall if they constantly feel pressure to validate their self-worth through achievements.

Consider incorporating support tools like Panda's digital group sessions for stress management and mental well-being in the workplace.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Amounts of Self-Esteem Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity: Employees with high self-esteem stress may experience decreased focus and increased absenteeism, leading to lower overall productivity in the workplace.

  2. Increased Healthcare Costs: Higher levels of stress can lead to mental health issues, resulting in increased healthcare costs for companies and the economy as a whole.

  3. High Employee Turnover: Organizations may face higher turnover rates as employees seek healthier work environments, leading to costs associated with recruitment and training.

  4. Decreased Innovation: High stress can stifle creativity and willingness to take risks, potentially leading to a stagnation in innovation within industries.

  5. Economic Inequality: Mental health issues can disproportionately affect certain segments of the population, potentially exacerbating economic inequality if support systems are inadequate.

Implementing mental health initiatives, such as those offered by October, can help mitigate these effects by providing support and resources for employees.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies to Lower Self-Esteem Stress in Canada

  1. Promote Inclusive Education

    • Implement programs in schools emphasizing self-acceptance and diversity.
  2. Workplace Mental Health Programs

    • Encourage companies to provide resources like October's digital sessions and assessments for employees.
  3. Public Awareness Campaigns

    • Launch initiatives that destigmatize mental health issues and promote positive self-image through diverse representation in media.
  4. Community Support Programs

    • Foster community centers that provide support groups and workshops focused on building self-esteem and resilience.
  5. Accessible Mental Health Resources

    • Ensure affordable access to counseling and therapy services across the country.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Promote Open Communication: Encourage employees to share their thoughts and feelings. Regular check-ins can help employees feel valued and less isolated.

  • Recognition Programs: Implement employee recognition programs to celebrate achievements, fostering a sense of accomplishment and belonging.

  • Offer Skill Development: Provide training and development opportunities to help employees build their skills and confidence in their roles.

  • Mental Health Resources: Facilitate access to mental health resources, such as workshops or group sessions from platforms like October, to address self-esteem issues collectively.

  • Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a workplace culture that values diversity, inclusivity, and support, reducing comparison and competition that can harm self-esteem.