Stress, anxiety and depression: an increasing number of workers in Germany are using mental health rehabilitation services. In the last 20 years, the figure has almost doubled.

More German workers turning to mental health services

In 2002, 9,7 percent of work-approved rehabilitations in Germany were due to mental illness. By 2022, this number had climbed to 18,8 percent, according to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung (German public pension insurance system).

The report details that 20 years ago, 92.000 rehab facilities were approved to cater to patients with mental health problems and not those with addictions. Now, this number has ballooned to 171.000 in order to help keep up with demand.

Why are workers seeking rehabilitation treatment?

According to the Deutsche Rentenversicherung, the majority of patients at rehabilitation centres in Germany, women and men alike, are seeking help for depression and anxiety. The average age of service users is 50 years old. 

Speaking to RND, a spokesperson from the Deutsche Rentenversicherung explained that in 82 percent of cases where people have had rehabilitation for mental health issues, they have returned to their jobs afterwards. Two years after they have received the initial treatment, 18 percent of patients receive a reduced earning capacity pension.

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