Three in ten Belgians reported experiencing mental health issues in 2024, according to a report published by insurer Axa on Tuesday.
This figure remains relatively stable compared to 2023, except among young people aged 18 to 24. In this age group, 43% reported suffering from deteriorated mental well-being, an increase of 14% from 2023.
The Mind Health Report, published annually since 2020, surveys the population in 16 countries across Europe, America, and Asia.
Among the 1,000 Belgian respondents, 30% indicated they are affected by mental health issues. Uncertainty about the future, financial instability, job insecurity, exposure to negative news, and isolation influence their psychological well-being.
For young adults, excessive use of social media is a significant factor. While 53% of them believe social media harms their mental health, 38% use these platforms to seek information on the subject. Nearly two-thirds have used a digital tool to support their mental well-being, compared to one in four Belgians across all age categories.
The survey also reveals that the workplace plays a significant role in mental health. Job stress affects eight out of ten workers in Belgium, leading to sleep disorders, headaches, muscle tension, increased irritability, and mood swings.
"On average, 51% of Belgians expect their employer to provide mental health support. This figure rises to 65% among those under 35," explains Lode Godderis, CEO of Idewe, an external service for workplace prevention and protection.
