October Health – 2025 Report

Anxiety in India

The leading cause of anxiety stress in India at the population level is primarily related to socioeconomic factors, including financial instability, job insecurity, and academic pressure. Rapid urbanization, unemployment, and the pressure to perform in competitive educational and work environments also contribute significantly. Workplace-related stress, due to high workloads and lack of mental health support, is a notable factor as well. Digital group sessions and workplace mental health assessments by platforms like October can help organizations address and manage these stressors effectively.

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Anxiety Prevalence
33.66%
Affected people
18,513,000

Impact on the people of India

Effects of High Anxiety Stress on Health and Personal Life

Health Effects:

  • Increased risk of cardiovascular issues (e.g., hypertension, heart disease)
  • Weakened immune system, leading to frequent illness
  • Sleep disturbances, causing fatigue and reduced cognitive function
  • Digestive problems such as irritable bowel syndrome
  • Increased likelihood of mental health disorders (e.g., depression, panic attacks)

Personal Life Effects:

  • Impaired relationships due to irritability or withdrawal
  • Decreased productivity and performance at work
  • Difficulty concentrating, leading to mistakes or missed deadlines
  • Reduced motivation and enjoyment of activities
  • Social isolation, which can exacerbate feelings of anxiety

Using digital group sessions like those offered by October can help employees manage anxiety by providing accessible support and strategies in the workplace.

Impact on the India Economy

Effects of High Anxiety and Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity:
    Employees experiencing high anxiety and stress often have lower concentration, impaired decision-making, and increased errors, leading to decreased overall productivity.

  2. Increased Absenteeism and Presenteeism:
    Stress-related health issues cause more sick leaves (absenteeism) and presenteeism (being present but unproductive), disrupting workflow and increasing costs.

  3. Higher Healthcare Costs:
    Chronic stress and anxiety contribute to physical and mental health problems, escalating healthcare expenses for both employers and the public health system.

  4. Talent Attrition and Recruitment Challenges:
    A stressful work environment leads to higher turnover rates, forcing companies to spend more resources on hiring and training new employees.

  5. Lower Economic Growth:
    Combined effects of decreased productivity and increased costs reduce overall economic output and slow down growth.

Workplace Mental Health Support Suggestion
Implementing digital group sessions and regular assessments through platforms like Panda can help reduce anxiety levels in employees, improving productivity and economic outcomes.

What can government do to assist?

Ways a Country Can Lower Anxiety and Stress

  1. Promote Mental Health Awareness

    • Launch nationwide campaigns to reduce stigma around mental health.
    • Educate the public on recognizing anxiety and stress symptoms.

  2. Improve Access to Mental Health Services

    • Increase availability of affordable counseling and therapy centers.
    • Integrate digital mental health tools like October’s group sessions and assessments in workplaces.

  3. Enhance Workplace Mental Health Support

    • Encourage companies to implement employee wellness programs.
    • Provide training for managers to identify and support stressed employees.

  4. Strengthen Social Support Systems

    • Create community centers offering support groups and activities.
    • Promote social connection to reduce isolation.

  5. Implement Policies for Work-Life Balance

    • Enforce reasonable working hours and paid leave.
    • Encourage flexible work arrangements.

  6. Ensure Economic and Social Stability

    • Address unemployment, poverty, and housing issues that contribute to stress.

  7. Encourage Physical Activity and Healthy Lifestyle

    • Build public parks and promote regular exercise.
    • Advocate for balanced nutrition and sleep hygiene.

Using digital tools like Panda’s mental health platform can help organizations and governments efficiently reach large populations to deliver programs that reduce workplace anxiety and stress.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

Ways a Company Can Lower Anxiety and Stress

  1. Promote Open Communication
    Encourage employees to share concerns without fear of judgment.

  2. Offer Flexible Work Arrangements
    Allow remote work or flexible hours to improve work-life balance.

  3. Provide Access to Mental Health Resources
    Partner with platforms like October for digital group sessions, assessments, and relevant content.

  4. Conduct Regular Stress Management Workshops
    Teach practical techniques such as mindfulness and breathing exercises.

  5. Encourage Breaks and Time Off
    Normalize taking short breaks and using vacation days to recharge.

  6. Create a Supportive Work Environment
    Train managers to recognize signs of anxiety and offer empathetic support.

These steps can help build a resilient workplace culture while directly addressing anxiety and stress.