Stress and burnout are taking a measurable toll across work and learning environments, with a new International Labour Organization report estimating deaths linked to workplace psychosocial risks. The ILO estimates more than 840,000 deaths annually worldwide tied to factors such as job strain, insecurity, long working hours, and workplace bullying, with cardiovascular conditions comprising the majority of fatalities. While the report targets workplaces broadly, the underlying risk mechanisms—chronic stress, insecurity, and abusive cultures—resonate with higher education settings where students and employees face intense academic and institutional pressure. The findings also emphasize that mental disorders contribute heavily to “healthy life years lost,” reflecting long-term disabling impacts. For universities, the report strengthens the case for prevention-focused well-being strategies, including risk-reduction in policies and organizational culture—not only individual counseling.