Mental healthcare workforce factsheet: growth alongside persistent pressure
14 September 2026 · de Nederlandse ggz
Source: de Nederlandse ggz
The mental healthcare labour market showed a positive trend in 2025. The number of employees increased, and since 2023 more people have been joining the sector than leaving it. Nevertheless, workload, sickness absence and a growing staff shortage remain major challenges. These findings come from the new Mental Healthcare Labour Market and HR 2025 factsheet published by de Nederlandse ggz.
Approximately 115,000 people worked in Dutch mental healthcare in 2025. Since 2023, inflows have again exceeded outflows, with employees under the age of 35 contributing particularly strongly to this positive balance. More than 77% of employees are satisfied with their work. At the same time, workload remains high and the staff shortage is expected to increase further.
Maintaining the positive trend
The figures show that mental healthcare organisations can attract employees and that many professionals find their work meaningful. Yet the expected shortage of labour makes clear that recruitment alone will not be enough.
Retaining professionals and being a good employer
In the coming years, the challenge will also be to retain professionals and offer good employment conditions. This calls for continued attention to attractive working environments that support sustainable employability. Healthy and safe working conditions, opportunities for professional development and a meaningful say in professional decisions are therefore key priorities. These measures can help maintain the positive trend and secure sufficient staffing for the future.
The Mental Healthcare Labour Market and HR 2025
Original: Read the Dutch article