Chronic illness and Long-Term Workforce Absence: New Data from the Netherlands
Table of Contents
Recent data released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) and the Netherlands Institute for Healthcare Research (Nivel) reveals a significant correlation between chronic illness – both physical and psychological – and prolonged absence from the workforce. The findings highlight a notably stark reality for individuals living with chronic mental health conditions.
Prevalence of Chronic Conditions
A chronic condition is defined as one that cannot be fully cured. These conditions encompass both physical ailments and psychological disorders. The data indicates that over 55% of adults aged 30 too 65 in the Netherlands live with at least one chronic condition. Approximately 3% of this age group are diagnosed with a chronic mental illness, and in the majority of cases, these individuals also experience co-occurring chronic physical health issues. These prevalence figures are based on diagnoses recorded by general practitioners.
Disproportionate Impact on Those with Mental Illness
The research demonstrates a significantly higher rate of long-term work absence among individuals with chronic mental illnesses. Specifically, 50% of people diagnosed with conditions such as dementia, schizophrenia, personality disorders, or intellectual disabilities are out of work for a period of four years or more. This percentage rises to nearly 60% when these individuals also have multiple chronic physical health conditions.
This represents a rate more than double that of individuals with multiple chronic physical conditions but no diagnosed psychological condition, underscoring the complex interplay between mental and physical health and its impact on employment.
Key Findings Summary
- Over 55% of Dutch adults (30-65) live with at least one chronic condition.
- Approximately 3% of this age group have a chronic mental illness, frequently enough alongside physical health issues.
- 50% of individuals with a chronic mental illness are out of work for four years or more.
- this rate increases to almost 60% with co-occurring chronic physical conditions.
