October Health – 2025 Report

Work stress in India

The leading cause of work stress in India is often attributed to job insecurity, exacerbated by economic fluctuations and high competition. Other significant factors include long working hours, lack of work-life balance, and inadequate support from management.

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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

  1. Physical Health Issues

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

  2. Mental Health Problems

    • Elevated anxiety and depression
    • Decreased motivation and focus
    • Higher levels of irritability and frustration

  3. Impact on Personal Relationships

    • Strained relationships with family and friends
    • Reduced time for social activities
    • Increased conflict at home

  4. Workplace Productivity

    • Decreased job performance
    • Higher absenteeism rates
    • Greater likelihood of burnout

Encouraging organizations to implement mental health programs like those offered by October, including digital group sessions, can help employees manage stress effectively.

Impact on the India Economy

Effects of High Work Stress on an Economy

  1. Reduced Productivity: Increased stress can lead to decreased focus and efficiency, resulting in lower output.

  2. Higher Absenteeism: Employees may take more sick days due to stress-related health issues, disrupting workflow and increasing workload for others.

  3. Increased Healthcare Costs: Stress can lead to physical and mental health issues, escalating healthcare expenses for both employees and employers.

  4. Employee Turnover: High stress levels can result in higher turnover rates, leading to costs associated with recruiting and training new employees.

  5. Poor Organizational Culture: Chronic stress can damage team dynamics, reducing collaboration and morale within the workplace.

  6. Economic Burden: Collectively, these factors can slow economic growth and reduce competitiveness in the market.

Implementing workplace mental health initiatives, such as those provided by October, can help mitigate these issues by fostering a supportive environment for employees.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies to Lower Work Stress in a Country

  1. Promote Work-Life Balance
    Encourage flexible working hours and remote work options to help employees manage their personal and professional lives better.

  2. Implement Mental Health Awareness Programs
    Conduct nationwide awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of mental health in the workplace, similar to initiatives like those offered by October.

  3. Enhance Employee Support Services
    Provide access to counseling services, workshops, and digital mental health platforms to support employees' mental well-being.

  4. Foster Positive Work Environments
    Encourage employers to create a culture of open communication, recognition, and support among employees to reduce workplace stress.

  5. Regulate Work Hours
    Enforce regulations that limit overtime and ensure that employees are not overworked, promoting healthier work conditions.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

  1. Flexible Work Hours: Allow employees to choose their work hours to accommodate personal responsibilities and improve work-life balance.

  2. Mental Health Resources: Provide access to mental health resources, such as counseling services or platforms like October and October, which offer group sessions and support.

  3. Regular Check-ins: Conduct regular one-on-one meetings to discuss workloads and provide support where needed.

  4. Promote Breaks: Encourage short breaks throughout the day to help employees recharge and reduce burnout.

  5. Employee Training: Offer training on stress management techniques and resilience-building skills.