Why Mental Health is a Crucial Factor in Employee Absenteeism

The Rising Numbers: Mental Health and Absenteeism

The increase in absenteeism in the Netherlands is alarming, with mental health issues surfacing as a primary culprit. Recent statistics from the CBS indicate that the absenteeism rate continued on an upward trajectory in the first quarter of 2025. While seasonal illnesses like the flu are still the most common reasons for sick leave, a significant shift has occurred, positioning psychological complaints—such as stress and burnout—right behind physical ailments as a leading cause of long-term absenteeism.

Understanding the Work-Related Causes

According to research by TNO and CBS, a staggering 75% of employees reporting mental health-related sick leaves attribute their conditions to work stress. The principal aggravating factor? Excessive workload, identified by 27% of employees. However, stress is not merely a byproduct of long hours; it often stems from a combination of unyielding performance expectations, organizational changes, staff shortages, and a workplace culture that discourages setting personal boundaries. As such, mental health deterioration among employees is not just an individual concern—it poses a significant challenge for organizations at large.

The Cost of Ignoring Mental Health

The financial repercussions of work-related mental health issues are staggering. Workers suffering from these problems typically miss an average of 63 days, costing employers between €360 and €400 per day per employee. In total, this could lead to billions in losses annually, with over half directly attributable to psychosocial stressors in the workplace. Alarmingly, many organizations remain reticent to engage in meaningful discussions regarding mental health. As suggested by Lara Koijk, a psychologist at SpecialistenNet, companies that lack direct support and autonomy allow employees to conceal their mental health struggles. As a result, organizations focus on symptoms rather than root causes, ultimately leading to higher absenteeism and a culture where innovation and productivity fall by the wayside.

HR's Pivotal Role in Cultivating a Healthy Work Environment

A toxic work culture doesn’t always manifest through obvious signs. Often, it’s the subtler issues—such as a lack of tolerance for error, persistent performance pressure, and insufficient psychological safety—that complicate early intervention. HR professionals and leadership thus bear a dual responsibility. They must translate numerical urgency into a strategic initiative that re-emphasizes the importance of mental health while creating an environment where open conversations about stress and workloads are normalized. This involves training leaders to identify mental health signals early and adjusting policies to facilitate these conversations.

Vitality Check: A Step Towards Structural Change

Given the evident struggle many organizations face in embedding mental health into their operational ethos, SpecialistenNet has launched a campaign focused on the repercussions of toxic workplace cultures. At the center of this initiative is a free vitality check aimed at providing HR managers and employers initial insights into their organizations’ mental health policies. Based on the resilience of the results, participants can receive actionable tips facilitating the translation of general feedback into structured policies.

Melvin Klink, Commercial Director at SpecialistenNet, emphasizes the importance of this approach, noting, "While many organizations are aware that mental health issues are increasing, they often don’t know where to begin. The vitality check and accompanying advice lower the entry barrier and offer clear direction towards a healthier organizational culture."…

Conclusions and Call to Action

Organizations must extend their focus beyond immediate productivity outcomes to the long-term health of their workforce. By implementing proactive measures like the vitality check and fostering a culture of openness surrounding mental health, companies not only mitigate undue absenteeism but enhance overall workplace morale and effectiveness. Conclusively, it is not just a matter of ensuring employee attendance—building a mentally healthy work environment leads to a more engaged, productive workforce. For HR managers and executives eager to create sustainable, supportive environments, consider embracing the mental health dialogue without hesitation. The organizations that prioritize mental well-being today are the ones that will thrive tomorrow.