Rise in Long-Term Depression and Burnout Cases in Belgium, Especially Among Youth

Rise in Long-Term Depression and Burnout Cases in Belgium, Especially Among Youth
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Belgium has experienced a notable increase in the number of people unable to work due to depression and burnout, with cases rising by 44% over the past five years, predominantly affecting young people, Anadolu Agency reported.

Official figures released Monday by the National Institute for Health and Disability Insurance (INAMI-RIZIV) reveal that by the end of 2023, over 526,000 individuals were receiving long-term disability benefits, with psychological disorders representing nearly 38% of these cases. Among them, 137,454 were diagnosed with depression or burnout.

The sharpest increase occurred among those under 30, with a 21.6% rise in just one year. Women make up nearly 60% of all long-term disability recipients and approximately 69% of those suffering from depression or burnout.

While the highest number of cases remains in the 55-59 age group, younger people are seeing the fastest growth. Experts attribute this trend to increasing workplace stress, changing career expectations, and greater openness about mental health.

The financial impact on the government is rising as well, with Belgium spending over €2 billion ($2.3 billion) on long-term sickness benefits related to these conditions in 2023 — a 15% increase from the previous year and a 74% increase since 2018.