More than 840,000 people die each year from health conditions linked to workplace stress, according to a new report published on April 22 by the International Labour Organization. Psychosocial risks such as long working hours, job insecurity, bullying, and harassment are creating increasingly harmful environments for workers worldwide.
The report found these risks are closely tied to cardiovascular diseases and mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, and suicide. Long working hours remain a major factor, with around 35% of workers globally exceeding 48 hours per week—significantly increasing the risk of stroke and heart disease, according to the World Health Organization.
Beyond the human toll, the economic impact is also severe. Workplace-related health issues contribute to nearly 45 million lost years (DALYs) of healthy life annually and an estimated 1.37% loss in global GDP. Experts warn that modern work patterns—shaped by digitization, remote work, and artificial intelligence—are intensifying these risks and require urgent preventive measures.
Stress is a natural part of life, helping us respond to immediate challenges. But when it becomes chronic, it can reshape the brain, affecting memory, decision-making, and emotional balance. Click through the gallery to explore how stress impacts the brain and what can be done to protect your mental health.