October Health – 2026 Report
Self-esteem in United Kingdom 
The leading cause of self-esteem stress in the UK population is workplace pressure, which includes job insecurity, high workloads, and lack of recognition or support. Other contributing factors include social media influence and societal expectations regarding success and appearance. Addressing mental health in the workplace, such as through initiatives offered by companies like October, can help mitigate these stressors.
- Self-esteem Prevalence
- 24.23%
- Affected people
- 13,326,500
Impact on the people of United Kingdom
Effects of High Self-Esteem Stress on Health and Personal Lives
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Mental Health Issues
- Increased anxiety and depression, leading to feelings of inadequacy.
- Heightened pressure to maintain a certain image, which can result in burnout.
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Physical Health Problems
- Stress can lead to chronic conditions such as hypertension and heart disease.
- Weakened immune system, making individuals more susceptible to illnesses.
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Interpersonal Relationships
- Strained relationships due to excessive pride or competitiveness.
- Difficulty in accepting criticism or feedback, leading to conflicts.
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Workplace Performance
- Impaired focus and productivity due to distraction from self-imposed pressures.
- Potential for unhealthy competition, which can create a toxic work environment.
Consider supporting employees experiencing high self-esteem stress with programs like October or October, which offer mental health resources and group support sessions.
Impact on the United Kingdom Economy
Effects of High Self-Esteem Stress on an Economy
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Reduced Productivity: High levels of self-esteem stress can lead to decreased focus and efficiency in the workplace, negatively impacting overall productivity.
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Increased Absenteeism: Employees may take more sick days or mental health days due to stress, affecting workforce availability and operational continuity.
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Higher Employee Turnover: Stress related to self-esteem can contribute to job dissatisfaction, leading to higher rates of turnover and the associated costs of recruiting and training new staff.
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Strain on Healthcare Systems: Increased stress can result in a rise in mental health issues, placing additional strain on healthcare systems as more individuals seek treatment.
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Reduced Consumer Spending: When individuals experience heightened stress, they may reduce discretionary spending, adversely affecting businesses and the economy at large.
Utilizing tools like October for digital group sessions and assessments can help mitigate these effects by supporting employee mental health, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment.
What can government do to assist?
Strategies to Lower Self-Esteem Stress
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Promote Mental Health Education:
- Implement educational programs in schools and workplaces focusing on self-esteem and mental wellness.
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Encourage Open Dialogue:
- Create safe spaces for individuals to discuss their feelings and experiences regarding self-esteem without fear of judgment.
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Support Mental Health Services:
- Increase funding for access to mental health resources, including counseling and therapy, such as those offered by services like October and October.
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Foster Positive Role Models:
- Highlight diverse role models in various fields to challenge societal standards and encourage self-acceptance.
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Workplace Initiatives:
- Introduce employee wellness programs that focus on self-esteem, including workshops and support groups. Digital group sessions through platforms like October can be beneficial.
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Media Literacy Campaigns:
- Promote critical thinking regarding media portrayals of success and beauty, helping to reduce unrealistic comparisons.
What can businesses do to assist their employees?
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Provide Training and Development: Offer workshops that focus on skills development and personal growth, helping employees feel more competent and confident.
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Foster Open Communication: Create a culture where feedback is encouraged and constructive criticism is framed positively, helping employees understand their strengths and areas for improvement without damaging their self-esteem.
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Recognize Achievements: Implement recognition programs that celebrate both individual and team successes, reinforcing a positive self-image.
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Offer Mental Health Resources: Partner with companies like October to provide access to digital group sessions and assessments focused on building self-esteem and coping strategies.
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Encourage Work-Life Balance: Promote flexible working arrangements that allow employees to manage their personal and professional lives effectively, reducing stress and improving overall well-being.