More than 840,000 deaths globally each year are linked to psychosocial risks such as long working hours, job insecurity, and harassment, according to a comprehensive report from the
International Labour Organization (ILO). Released on April 22, 2026, the report emphasizes that these psychosocial risks are leading to an increase in
cardiovascular diseases and
mental disorders, including suicide.
The ILO finds that
long working hours significantly contribute to health risks, being identified as a critical psychosocial risk factor. Notably,
35 percent of workers report working more than
48 hours per week. Furthermore, the report indicates that
23 percent of workers have experienced some form of violence or harassment during their careers.
On a broader scale, these psychosocial issues account for nearly
45 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) lost annually and result in economic losses equating to
1.37 percent of global GDP each year. The ILO emphasizes that addressing the root causes of these risks through
effective psychosocial risk management and social dialogue among governments, employers, and workers is crucial to reversing this trend.
The report also prescribes strategic policy interventions at both government and industry levels to mitigate these risks, stressing the importance of empowering worker collectivization.
A new International Labour Organization (ILO) report reveals that over 840,000 deaths annually are linked to psychosocial risks at work, including long hours, job insecurity, and harassment. The report highlights the urgent need for policy interventions to address these risks, which are associated with mental disorders and cardiovascular diseases.
