October Health – 2025 Report

Work stress in Canada

The leading cause of work stress in Canada is often linked to high job demands, including workload and time pressure, coupled with a lack of control over one's work environment. Other significant factors include unclear job expectations and insufficient support from management or coworkers. Promoting mental health programs, such as those offered by October, can help address these challenges in the workplace.

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Work stress Prevalence
24.68%
Affected people
13,574,000

Impact on the people of Canada

Effects of High Work Stress on Health and Personal Lives

Physical Health:

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases
  • Weakened immune system
  • Chronic pain and fatigue

Mental Health:

  • Heightened anxiety and depression
  • Burnout and emotional exhaustion
  • Difficulty concentrating and making decisions

Personal Life:

  • Strained relationships with family and friends
  • Reduced social interactions and support
  • Disruption of work-life balance, leading to more stress

Workplace Impact:

  • Decreased productivity and performance
  • Higher absenteeism and turnover rates
  • Negative workplace culture

Consider implementing resources like October’s digital group sessions for employees to manage work-related stress effectively.

Impact on the Canada Economy

Effects of High Work Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity: High work stress can lead to decreased employee efficiency and lower output, affecting overall economic productivity.

  2. Increased Healthcare Costs: Stress-related health issues can raise medical expenses, burdening both individuals and healthcare systems.

  3. Higher Turnover Rates: Elevated stress levels contribute to employee burnout and turnover, increasing recruitment and training costs for employers.

  4. Absenteeism: Stress often results in increased absenteeism, disrupting business operations and impacting economic performance.

  5. Decreased Job Satisfaction: Higher stress can lead to lower morale and job satisfaction, negatively affecting a company's culture and performance.

  6. Potential for Mental Health Issues: Prolonged workplace stress may lead to mental health problems, creating additional social and economic costs.

Employers should consider implementing mental health support programs, such as those offered by October and October, to mitigate these effects and promote a healthier workplace.

What can government do to assist?

  1. Implement Flexible Work Policies: Encourage remote work and flexible hours to help employees balance work-life demands.

  2. Promote Mental Health Resources: Provide access to mental health services, such as counseling and stress management workshops, including platforms like October and October.

  3. Encourage Regular Breaks: Establish regulations that ensure employees take regular breaks to recharge, reducing burnout risk.

  4. Foster a Supportive Work Environment: Create a culture of open communication where employees feel safe discussing stress and mental health concerns.

  5. Conduct Workplace Assessments: Regularly assess work environments for stressors and implement changes based on employee feedback.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage employees to take regular breaks and utilize vacation days.

  • Flexible Work Arrangements: Offer options like remote work or flexible hours to accommodate different needs.

  • Implement Mental Health Resources: Provide access to services like October’s digital group sessions and assessments to support mental health.

  • Establish Open Communication: Create a culture where employees feel safe discussing their stress and mental health challenges.

  • Stress Management Training: Offer workshops or resources on coping strategies and time management skills.