Occupational health agencies warn of rising stress-related absenteeism

The number of employees in the Netherlands calling in sick for work due to stress-related issues has increased significantly in the last five years. Absenteeism due to stress has increased by 36 percent, according to the occupational health agencies ArboNed and HumanCapitalCare. One in four sick leave days is now related to stress, and the duration of these cases increases every year.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, the absenteeism due to stress increased by 8 percent compared to the previous year, the annual figures show. On average, employees who take leave due to stress are partially or completely unable to work for 36 weeks. For employees suffering from burnout, the average absence rises to ten months. Overall, sick leave has seen a slight increase, going from 4.7% to 4.8%.

According to the occupational health agencies, stress-related absenteeism is a major societal issue that affects the person, organizations, and society as a whole. They claim that employers can support the workers suffering from this by offering flexible working hours and professional help. Workers are advised to notify their employer of any symptoms promptly and prevent them from escalating.

Stress complaints often have various causes, according to the occupational health services. Women and part-time workers call in sick for these types of issues at a relatively higher level than men and full-time workers.

Factors such as life stage, personality, and personal circumstances, like caregiving responsibilities or divorce, also contribute. Broader societal trends, including the pressure to always be “on,” workforce shortages, and technological shifts, add to the stress on employees.

Of all the sectors, stress-related absenteeism is highest in the healthcare sector. On average, large organizations deal with more stress-related absenteeism than SME’s. Although it is the case that the impact is more significant for small business owners, the occupational health services reported.