Nearly one in five Belgians suffers from a mental health condition

Nearly one in five Belgians suffers from a mental health condition, according to the 2023–2024 Health Survey published by the Sciensano health institute on Tuesday. The problems appear to be most severe among young people.

Stress, sleep problems, anxiety and fatigue are a daily reality for a growing number of Belgians. Although six in ten respondents say their mental well-being is generally good, one in five is pessimistic about the future. Around 20 per cent experience severe mental distress, with symptoms such as stress, tension, low mood and poor sleep, the latter affecting half of the population. The prevalence of mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders and depression has risen sharply in recent years.

Young people are particularly affected. Nearly one in four between the ages of 15 and 24 suffers from an anxiety disorder and/or depression, while eating disorders and suicide attempts are also more frequent in this age group. Overall, the number of suicides in Belgium has increased compared with 2018.

Women and people with lower levels of education are more likely to experience loneliness and psychological difficulties, often linked to reduced social contact. “Major crises, such as the economic crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic and the uncertain international political climate, may also play a role,” according to Sciensano.

The health institute is calling for urgent action, emphasising the need to improve access to psychological support and preventive care, particularly for vulnerable groups such as women, young people and those in socially disadvantaged situations. “To turn the tide, measures will be needed, especially for the most vulnerable groups,” Sciensano stated.

^{© PHOTO LUKASZ KOBUS / HANS LUCAS COLLECTION}

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