October Health – 2025 Report

Addiction in United Kingdom

The leading cause of addiction-related stress in the United Kingdom at a population level is often linked to socioeconomic factors such as financial difficulties, unemployment, and social isolation. These stressors contribute to higher rates of substance misuse as coping mechanisms. Workplace pressures and job insecurity also play significant roles, affecting mental wellbeing and increasing susceptibility to addiction. Supporting employees through workplace mental health initiatives and providing accessible support—such as digital group sessions from providers like October—can help mitigate these stressors.

← back to the Report
Addiction Prevalence
6.99%
Affected people
3,844,500

Impact on the people of United Kingdom

Effects of High Addiction Stress on Health and Personal Life

Health Effects:

  • Increased risk of mental health disorders (anxiety, depression)
  • Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue
  • Weakened immune system, leading to physical illness
  • Potential development or worsening of substance misuse or addictive behaviours

Personal Life Effects:

  • Strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
  • Reduced work performance and increased absenteeism
  • Social withdrawal and isolation
  • Financial difficulties due to compulsive spending or treatment costs

Workplace Support Suggestion:

  • Consider digital group sessions or assessments via October to address addiction stress, raise awareness, and provide coping strategies within your organisation.

Impact on the United Kingdom Economy

Effects of High Addiction-Related Stress on an Economy

  • Reduced Productivity: Employees dealing with addiction-related stress often have lower concentration, increased absenteeism, and reduced work output.

  • Increased Healthcare Costs: More resources are spent on treating addiction and associated mental health issues, burdening public health systems and employers' healthcare plans.

  • Higher Unemployment Rates: Addiction stress can lead to job loss or inability to maintain employment, increasing unemployment and social welfare dependency.

  • Workplace Accidents: Stress and impaired functioning due to addiction heighten the risk of workplace accidents, leading to costs from injuries and insurance claims.

  • Decreased Economic Growth: Aggregated impacts on workforce efficiency and healthcare drain slow overall economic development.

Workplace Mental Health Action: Employers can mitigate these impacts by providing support through assessments and group sessions, like those offered by October, to address addiction stress proactively.

What can government do to assist? 

 How a Country Can Lower Addiction Stress

1. **Improve Access to Mental Health Services**  
   Provide widespread, affordable access to counselling, therapy, and addiction treatment programmes.

2. **Workplace Support Initiatives**  
   Encourage employers to implement mental health support, including stress management training and addiction awareness programmes.

3. **Public Awareness Campaigns**  
   Educate the public on addiction risks, stress management techniques, and available support resources.

4. **Promote Healthy Lifestyle Choices**  
   Support community programmes that encourage exercise, nutrition, and social connection, which help reduce stress.

5. **Early Identification and Intervention**  
   Implement screening in workplaces and healthcare settings to identify stress and addictive behaviours early.

6. **Digital Support Tools**  
   Use platforms like October to offer accessible group sessions and mental health assessments, helping reduce stigma and provide ongoing support.

What can businesses do to assist their employees? 

 How a Company Can Lower Addiction-Related Stress

1. **Implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)**
   - Provide confidential support and counseling services for addiction issues.

2. **Promote Awareness and Education**
   - Offer workshops or digital group sessions about addiction and coping mechanisms (e.g., through platforms like October).

3. **Create a Supportive Work Environment**
   - Encourage open communication and reduce stigma around addiction.

4. **Flexible Work Arrangements**
   - Allow flexible hours or remote work to accommodate treatment or recovery programs.

5. **Regular Mental Health Assessments**
   - Use assessments to identify at-risk employees early and provide targeted support.

6. **Provide Access to Professional Help**
   - Facilitate connections with addiction specialists or therapists.

Implementing these strategies can reduce addiction stress and improve overall workplace wellbeing.