October Health – 2025 Report

Work stress in India

The leading causes of work stress in India include: 1. **Job Insecurity**: Concerns over job stability and the economy contribute significantly to stress levels. 2. **Excessive Workload**: Long hours and high demands without adequate resources lead to burnout. 3. **Lack of Work-Life Balance**: Difficulty in managing personal and professional responsibilities creates stress. 4. **Poor Management Practices**: Inadequate communication, lack of support, and unclear expectations from management can increase anxiety. 5. **Workplace Culture**: A high-pressure environment and lack of recognition or appreciation can negatively impact mental well-being. Companies like October could benefit from implementing digital group sessions and assessments to address these stressors effectively.

← back to the Report
Work stress Prevalence
24.17%
Affected people
13,293,500

Impact on the people of India

Effects of High Work Stress on Health and Personal Lives

Physical Health

  1. Cardiovascular Issues: Increased risk of heart disease and hypertension.
  2. Weakened Immune System: Higher susceptibility to illnesses.
  3. Chronic Conditions: Development or exacerbation of conditions like diabetes.

Mental Health

  1. Anxiety and Depression: Work stress is closely linked to increased levels of anxiety and depressive disorders.
  2. Burnout: Chronic stress can lead to emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

Personal Life

  1. Relationship Strain: Increased irritability and mood swings can damage personal relationships.
  2. Decreased Quality Time: Difficulty in balancing work and personal life can lead to neglecting personal hobbies and connections.
  3. Reduced Life Satisfaction: High stress can erode overall happiness and fulfillment in life.

Recommendations: Implement workplace mental health support like those offered by October and October, such as digital group sessions and mental health assessments, to help employees manage stress effectively.

Impact on the India Economy

Effects of High Work Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity
    High levels of work stress can lead to decreased employee efficiency and output, affecting overall productivity.

  2. Increased Absenteeism
    Employees suffering from stress are more likely to take sick leave, leading to workforce shortages and disrupted operations.

  3. Higher Employee Turnover
    Stress can contribute to higher resignation rates, resulting in increased recruitment and training costs for companies.

  4. Healthcare Costs
    Stress-related health issues can lead to higher medical expenses for companies and increased insurance premiums.

  5. Impact on Mental Health
    A stressed workforce can contribute to a rise in mental health disorders, creating a heavier burden on public health systems.

To mitigate these effects, companies in India can consider using services like October to provide support through digital group sessions and assessments for their employees.

What can government do to assist?

  • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage policies that support flexible working hours and remote work options to help employees manage their professional and personal lives better.

  • Provide Mental Health Resources: Ensure access to mental health services, like counseling and support groups. Platforms such as October can facilitate this through digital group sessions and assessments.

  • Implement Stress Management Training: Offer training programs for employees and managers on stress management techniques, mindfulness, and resilience building.

  • Create a Supportive Environment: Foster a workplace culture that prioritizes mental well-being, encouraging open discussions about stress and mental health without stigma.

  • Regular Assessment and Feedback: Conduct regular employee surveys to assess stress levels and make adjustments to workplace policies and programs accordingly.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  • Promote Work-Life Balance: Encourage flexible working hours and remote work options to help employees manage their time better.

  • Implement Regular Check-ins: Schedule one-on-one meetings to discuss workload and stress levels, allowing employees to voice concerns.

  • Provide Training on Stress Management: Offer workshops or sessions that teach stress-reduction techniques, mindfulness practices, and resilience building.

  • Encourage Breaks: Promote regular short breaks throughout the day to help employees recharge and increase productivity.

  • Access to Mental Health Resources: Provide information about mental health services, such as digital group sessions offered by companies like October, which can help employees address stress in a supportive setting.