October Health – 2025 Report

Depression in United States

The leading cause of depression-related stress in the United States at the population level is financial insecurity, including job instability and economic pressures. Workplace factors like high job demands, low control, and lack of support also significantly contribute. Offering digital group sessions on stress management and workplace mental health, like those provided by October, can help organizations support their employees.

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Depression Prevalence
26.5%
Affected people
14,575,000

Impact on the people of United States

Effects of High Depression-Related Stress on Health and Personal Life

Health Effects:

  • Increased risk of chronic illnesses (e.g., heart disease, diabetes)
  • Weakened immune system leading to more frequent illnesses
  • Sleep disturbances (insomnia or hypersomnia)
  • Fatigue and low energy levels
  • Changes in appetite and weight
  • Cognitive difficulties (poor concentration, memory problems)

Personal Life Effects:

  • Reduced productivity and motivation at work
  • Strained relationships with family, friends, and colleagues
  • Social withdrawal and isolation
  • Increased risk of substance abuse
  • Lower overall quality of life and well-being

Workplace recommendation: Companies can support employees by offering mental health resources like Panda's digital group sessions and assessments to identify and manage depression stress effectively.

Impact on the United States Economy

Effects of High Depression-Related Stress on an Economy

  • Reduced Workforce Productivity: Employees experiencing depression-related stress often face diminished concentration, motivation, and energy, leading to lower output.

  • Increased Absenteeism and Presenteeism: Depression can cause more sick days (absenteeism) and reduced performance while at work (presenteeism), disrupting business operations.

  • Higher Healthcare Costs: Increased mental health issues raise demand for medical treatments and therapy, inflating healthcare expenditures for employers and the public.

  • Talent Retention Challenges: Persistent stress and depressive symptoms can increase turnover rates, making it harder to retain skilled workers.

  • Economic Output Impact: Collectively, these factors result in decreased GDP growth due to underutilized human capital.

Workplace Recommendation: Implementing digital group sessions and mental health assessments, like those offered by October, can aid in early identification and support to mitigate these economic impacts.

What can government do to assist? 

 Strategies for a Country to Lower Depression and Stress

1. **Improve Access to Mental Health Care**  
   - Increase funding for mental health services and ensure affordable, accessible care.  
   - Expand telehealth services to reach underserved areas.

2. **Promote Workplace Mental Health Programs**  
   - Encourage employers to implement mental health initiatives, such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).  
   - Support digital group sessions and mental health assessments (e.g., via platforms like October) to foster peer support and early intervention.

3. **Public Awareness Campaigns**  
   - Launch campaigns to reduce stigma around mental illness and promote mental health literacy.  
   - Educate about stress management techniques and when to seek help.

4. **Enhance Social Support Systems**  
   - Strengthen community support networks and social services.  
   - Foster connections via community centers and support groups.

5. **Address Socioeconomic Factors**  
   - Improve job security, fair wages, and reduce poverty to lower stress related to economic insecurity.  
   - Promote work-life balance through labor regulations encouraging reasonable work hours.

6. **Promote Healthy Lifestyle**  
   - Encourage physical activity, healthy eating, and adequate sleep through public health initiatives.  
   - Support schools and workplaces in implementing wellness programs.

Adopting these approaches holistically can reduce the prevalence of depression and stress at a population level.

What can businesses do to assist their employees? 

 Strategies for Companies to Lower Depression and Stress

1. **Promote Open Communication**  
   Encourage a culture where employees feel safe discussing mental health without stigma.

2. **Provide Access to Mental Health Resources**  
   Offer services such as Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), counseling, and digital mental health platforms like October for group sessions and assessments.

3. **Implement Flexible Work Policies**  
   Support work-life balance through flexible hours or remote work options.

4. **Train Managers on Mental Health Awareness**  
   Equip leaders to recognize signs of depression and stress and respond appropriately.

5. **Encourage Regular Breaks and Physical Activity**  
   Promote short breaks during work and opportunities for exercise to reduce stress.

6. **Create a Supportive Work Environment**  
   Foster teamwork, recognition, and social support among colleagues.

Using platforms like October allows companies to run digital group sessions, conduct assessments, and provide tailored mental health content, directly supporting employee mental wellness effectively.