October Health – 2025 Report

Addiction in United States

The leading cause of addiction-related stress in the United States at the population level is often linked to chronic stressors such as economic hardship (including unemployment and financial insecurity), social isolation, and trauma exposure. These systemic stressors increase vulnerability to substance use as a coping mechanism. Supporting employees through workplace mental health programs like October’s digital group sessions on stress management can help mitigate this risk.

← back to the Report
Addiction Prevalence
6.13%
Affected people
3,371,500

Impact on the people of United States

Effects of High Addiction Stress on Health and Personal Life

  • Physical Health

    • Increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and weakened immune system
    • Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue
    • Poor nutrition and weight fluctuations

  • Mental Health

    • Heightened anxiety, depression, and mood swings
    • Reduced cognitive function and concentration at work
    • Greater susceptibility to other substance use and addictive behaviors

  • Personal Life

    • Strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
    • Decline in job performance and workplace engagement
    • Increased absenteeism and risk of unemployment
    • Social isolation and reduced support networks

Workplace Recommendations: Consider integrating digital group sessions like those offered by October to address addiction-related stress, promote coping strategies, and foster supportive peer discussions. This can help improve employee well-being and productivity.

Impact on the United States Economy

Effects of High Addiction Stress on an Economy

  • Decreased Productivity: Addiction leads to absenteeism, tardiness, and reduced work performance, lowering overall productivity.
  • Increased Healthcare Costs: Greater demand for medical treatment related to addiction increases employer and public healthcare expenses.
  • Higher Unemployment Rates: Addiction can impair job retention and employability, raising unemployment and underemployment.
  • Workplace Accidents: Substance abuse elevates the risk of accidents and injuries, leading to higher insurance premiums and compensation claims.
  • Reduced Economic Growth: Combined impacts on workforce and healthcare strain slow down economic progress.
  • Social Costs: Addiction-related criminal justice and social support expenses divert public resources.

Workplace mental health programs like those offered by October (digital group sessions, assessments, and content) can help reduce addiction stress and mitigate these economic impacts.

What can government do to assist? 

 Strategies for a Country to Lower Addiction Stress

1. **Implement Comprehensive Public Education**  
   - Raise awareness about addiction and stress management through school curricula, media campaigns, and workplaces.

2. **Increase Access to Mental Health and Addiction Services**  
   - Expand affordable, accessible treatment options including counseling, medication-assisted treatment, and rehabilitation programs.

3. **Promote Workplace Mental Health Programs**  
   - Encourage employers to provide resources such as stress management workshops, Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), and digital group sessions like those offered by October.

4. **Strengthen Community Support Systems**  
   - Foster community groups and peer support networks to reduce social isolation and provide ongoing encouragement.

5. **Regulate Substance Availability**  
   - Enforce policies controlling the availability and marketing of addictive substances such as alcohol, tobacco, and prescription drugs.

6. **Integrate Screening and Early Intervention**  
   - Train healthcare providers to screen for addiction and stress-related issues early and offer timely interventions.

By adopting these multipronged approaches, a country can reduce addiction-related stress and improve public mental health overall.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

Strategies to Lower Addiction-Related Stress in the Workplace

  1. Provide Education & Awareness
    Offer training sessions on addiction, its impact, and resources available. This reduces stigma and encourages employees to seek help.

  2. Implement Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
    Ensure confidential counseling and support for addiction and related stress are accessible.

  3. Promote a Supportive Work Environment
    Foster open communication and create a non-judgmental atmosphere so employees feel safe discussing their challenges.

  4. Flexible Work Arrangements
    Allow flexibility in schedules to accommodate treatment or recovery sessions.

  5. Use Digital Group Sessions & Resources like October
    Facilitate group support and provide ongoing mental health content focused on addiction and stress management.

  6. Train Managers to Recognize Signs
    Equip supervisors with skills to identify early signs of addiction-related stress and refer employees to appropriate help.

Implementing these steps can help reduce addiction stress and improve overall workplace mental health.