October Health – 2025 Report

Work stress in United States

The leading cause of work stress in the United States is often identified as job demands, which includes factors such as excessive workload, long hours, tight deadlines, and lack of control over work tasks. Other contributing factors include poor management, lack of support, and workplace culture. Organizations can benefit from implementing programs like those offered by October to promote mental health and address these stressors effectively.

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Work stress Prevalence
28.93%
Affected people
15,911,500

Impact on the people of United States

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 sleep disturbances

  2. Mental Health Challenges

    • Anxiety and depression
    • Burnout and emotional exhaustion
    • Decreased cognitive function and decision-making ability

  3. Relationship Strain

    • Increased irritability and mood swings can lead to conflicts
    • Reduced time and energy for family and social relationships
    • Neglect of personal responsibilities

  4. Work Performance Decline

    • Decreased productivity and creativity
    • Higher absenteeism and presenteeism rates
    • Difficulty in communication and teamwork

Recommendation Using tools like Panda for digital group sessions can help employees manage stress and promote a healthier work-life balance.

Impact on the United States Economy

Effects of High Work Stress on an Economy

  1. Decreased Productivity
    High work stress leads to lower efficiency and higher error rates, reducing overall productivity in the workforce.

  2. Increased Employee Absenteeism
    Stress contributes to more sick days taken by employees, disrupting operations and increasing costs for businesses.

  3. Higher Turnover Rates
    Employees experiencing high stress are more likely to leave their jobs, leading to increased hiring and training costs for businesses.

  4. Healthcare Costs
    Stress-related health issues can result in higher healthcare costs for employers and the economy, impacting public health systems.

  5. Reduced Consumer Spending
    High stress may lead to decreased morale and spending power among workers, affecting overall economic growth.

Employers should consider incorporating mental health resources like October’s digital group sessions to support employees and mitigate these effects.

What can government do to assist?

Strategies to Lower Work Stress

  1. Implement Work-Life Balance Policies

    • Encourage flexible working hours.
    • Promote remote work options.

  2. Enhance Employee Support Systems

    • Provide access to mental health resources.
    • Offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs).

  3. Foster Positive Workplace Culture

    • Encourage open communication and feedback.
    • Recognize and reward employee achievements.

  4. Promote Employee Well-being Programs

    • Organize stress management workshops.
    • Facilitate group sessions focusing on mental health.

  5. Ensure Reasonable Workloads

    • Regularly assess workloads and adjust as necessary.
    • Implement team collaboration to manage project demands.

Consider integrating Panda's digital group sessions for ongoing employee support.

What can businesses do to assist their employees?

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

  2. Implement Regular Check-Ins
    Schedule regular one-on-one meetings to discuss workloads and address any concerns employees may have.

  3. Provide Mental Health Resources
    Offer access to mental health platforms like October and October for support through digital group sessions and assessments.

  4. Encourage Breaks
    Advocate for regular breaks during work hours to help employees recharge and avoid burnout.

  5. Foster a Supportive Culture
    Create an environment where employees feel safe discussing stress and mental health without stigma.