Workers’ health isn’t the only thing at risk of job strain — the economy is too, study finds

Job Strain Threatens Workers’ Health and Economy, Study Finds

Workers health isn t the only – The International Labour Organization (ILO) study reveals a growing concern: workers’ health is not the sole casualty of job strain—economic impacts are equally significant. Over 840,000 people die each year from stress-related health conditions, with extended work hours, job insecurity, and workplace harassment identified as key contributors. These challenges extend beyond individual well-being, creating systemic risks for businesses and national economies. The report highlights how psychosocial stressors affect both physical and mental health, while also straining organizational productivity and increasing turnover rates.

Health and Economic Consequences Interconnected

While cardiovascular diseases account for the majority of job strain-related fatalities, mental health disorders have a more pervasive effect on workers’ daily lives. Conditions like depression and anxiety lead to prolonged absenteeism and diminished job satisfaction, which in turn reduce economic output. The study further notes that mental health issues can diminish healthy life years more than physical ailments, emphasizing their long-term impact on workforce efficiency. Globally, GDP losses due to combined stress and health consequences are estimated at 1.37% annually, underscoring the economic stakes of neglecting worker well-being.

Europe Faces Disproportionate Economic Challenges

Europe and Central Asia bear a particularly heavy burden, with a 1.43% annual GDP loss linked to job-related health problems. The region ranks second globally in terms of impact, reflecting rising mental health concerns among European workers. Nearly one-third of EU employees report experiencing stress, depression, or anxiety, with women more likely to voice these challenges than men. This disparity highlights the need for targeted interventions to address both health and economic pressures in the workplace.

“Mental health issues are increasingly shaping the economic landscape, with Europe at the forefront of this crisis,” the ILO report states.

Stigma Hinders Effective Workplace Support

Stigma around mental health remains a major obstacle in tackling job strain. The ILO study points out that this stigma limits preventive measures and support systems, placing a heavy financial load on employers. In the EU, work-related depression costs over €100 billion yearly, with 80% of expenses shouldered by businesses. This illustrates the tight link between mental health and economic productivity, as companies struggle to manage stress-related absences and reduced efficiency.

Regional Differences in Stress Perception

Workplace stress perception varies widely across Europe. In Greece, Cyprus, France, and Italy, over 60% of employees fear negative consequences if they discuss mental health concerns with managers. This contrasts with Nordic nations, where 80% feel comfortable raising such issues. The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EU-OSHA) suggests cultural attitudes and policy frameworks may explain these differences, influencing how stress is managed and mitigated in various regions.

Autonomy and Control in Work Environments

Workplace autonomy significantly affects stress levels, according to a 2025 Eurofound study. Half of EU men report having some control over their schedules, while 43% of women share this experience. This disparity contributes to varying degrees of job satisfaction and mental well-being. Meanwhile, 17% of workers feel powerless over their tasks, exacerbating burnout and reducing overall productivity. Enhancing control over work pace and processes could alleviate these pressures and improve both health and economic outcomes.

Technology’s Dual Role in Workplace Stress

Technology’s influence on job strain is complex. While 48% of European workers believe it sets the work pace, others argue it limits their ability to apply expertise and make decisions. Approximately 19% claim it hinders flexibility, and 16% feel it reduces autonomy. These findings highlight a divided perspective, with technology acting as both a driver of stress and a tool for innovation. Balancing its benefits with its drawbacks is essential to reducing the dual threat to health and economic stability.

Monotony and Sector-Specific Pressures

The rise in repetitive work tasks has intensified across Europe, climbing from 39% in 1995 to 48% in 2024. Sectors like agriculture and transport report the highest exposure, with 60% and 56% of workers facing similar conditions. Commerce and hospitality also show high levels of monotonous work, at 53%. Such environments contribute to mental fatigue and dissatisfaction, reinforcing the link between job strain and broader economic implications.