October Health – 2025 Report

Sleep in Canada

The leading cause of sleep stress in Canada is often attributed to work-related factors, including high job demands, lack of control in the workplace, and poor work-life balance. These factors can lead to increased stress and anxiety, significantly impacting sleep quality for the workforce as a whole. Organizations can support mental health by offering resources like assessments and digital group sessions, such as those provided by October, to address these workplace stressors.

Sleep Prevalence
26.94%
Affected people
14,817,000

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Sleep Stress on Health and Personal Lives

  1. Physical Health Issues

    • Increased risk of chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart disease).
    • Weakened immune system, leading to frequent illnesses.
  2. Mental Health Challenges

    • Heightened anxiety and depression.
    • Poor emotional regulation, leading to mood swings.
  3. Cognitive Impairments

    • Decreased concentration and decision-making abilities.
    • Impaired memory and learning capabilities.
  4. Workplace Performance

    • Reduced productivity and efficiency.
    • Increased absenteeism due to health-related issues.
  5. Impact on Relationships

    • Strained communication with colleagues and family.
    • Increased irritability, leading to conflicts and misunderstandings.

Promoting mental wellness initiatives, such as those offered by companies like October and October, can help employees manage sleep-related stress and enhance their overall well-being.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Sleep Stress on an Economy

  1. Decreased Productivity
    Employees experiencing sleep stress may have reduced focus, impaired decision-making, and lower overall work performance, leading to decreased productivity levels across sectors.

  2. Increased Healthcare Costs
    Sleep stress can contribute to various health issues, leading to higher medical expenses for both individuals and employers, thereby straining healthcare systems and increasing insurance premiums.

  3. Higher Absenteeism
    Poor sleep can result in more sick days taken by employees, negatively impacting workforce availability and increasing the burden on their colleagues.

  4. Reduced Employee Engagement
    Chronic sleep stress can lead to disengagement from work responsibilities, which affects organizational culture and morale, ultimately impacting company success.

  5. Impaired Innovation
    Lack of adequate rest can stifle creativity and innovation, as employees may struggle to think critically and generate new ideas, limiting economic growth opportunities.

Employers should consider implementing mental health initiatives, such as those offered by October and October, to help mitigate sleep stress and improve overall employee well-being.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies for Reducing Sleep Stress in Canada

  1. Public Awareness Campaigns
    Promote the importance of sleep hygiene through educational campaigns that highlight healthy sleep habits.

  2. Workplace Policies
    Encourage flexible work hours and remote work options to allow employees to prioritize sleep.

  3. Access to Mental Health Resources
    Provide access to digital mental health services like October for individual and group sessions focused on stress management and sleep improvement.

  4. Community Programs
    Establish community wellness programs that include workshops on relaxation techniques and mindfulness practices.

  5. Support for Research
    Invest in research on sleep disorders and stress, and disseminate findings to improve public health guidance.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Promote Flexible Work Hours: Allow employees to adjust their schedules for better work-life balance.
  • Encourage Breaks: Implement regular breaks to reduce fatigue and refresh focus throughout the day.
  • Create a Restful Environment: Ensure the workplace is conducive to productivity with comfortable seating and proper lighting.
  • Provide Sleep Education: Offer workshops or resources on sleep hygiene and stress management strategies.
  • Implement Mental Health Resources: Utilize platforms like October for assessments and group sessions focused on sleep and stress.