Absenteeism due to illness continues to rise in the Netherlands
According to Statistics Netherlands, absenteeism due to illness rose again in the first quarter of 2025 (CBS, 2025): 𝘃𝗮𝗻 𝟱,𝟱% 𝗶𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 𝗻𝗮𝗮𝗿 𝟱,𝟴% 𝗶𝗻 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱. Mental health issues in particular are on the rise: after flu and colds, they are among the most frequently cited reasons for employee absenteeism.
This increase is part of a broader trend that has been evident for several years. Absenteeism is not only becoming more frequent, but also more prolonged, leaving employers increasingly at a loss.
The main causes of long-term sick leave
The most common causes of long-term sick leave can be divided into private-related and work-related causes. We have listed the most important ones for you:
The private-related causes
- Psychological and mental health issues. Issues such as stress, burnout, anxiety disorders, and depression are among the leading causes of long-term sick leave. These issues are increasing structurally and are increasingly leading to long-term absenteeism.
- Demanding personal circumstances. Caregiving , financial worries, relationship problems, or grief can take a heavy toll on mental health. When these factors are combined with work pressure, the risk of long-term absenteeism increases significantly.
- Chronic physical complaints. Chronic conditions such as back and neck problems, cardiovascular disease, and other long-term health issues can severely limit an employee's ability to work. If the workload is not adequately adjusted to the employee's capacity, this can result in the employee being unable to continue working.
Work-related causes
- High workload and stress. A structurally high workload is one of the most common work-related causes of long-term sick leave. Stress arises mainly when employees experience little autonomy, expectations are unclear, and there are no opportunities for recovery. Long-term work stress not only increases the risk of mental health issues, but also increases the risk of physical health issues and burnout.
- Disrupted work-life balance. The rise of hybrid and flexible working has its advantages, but it also blurs the boundaries between work and private life. Employees are more often 'always on', take less time to rest, and generally find it more difficult to switch off from work.
Why long-term sick leave is often recognized too late
Although there are numerous reasons why employees may be absent from work, in practice it is often difficult to pick up on the signs in time and address them. Employers sometimes find it difficult to discuss this, especially when complaints are partly related to private matters.
What can you do as an employer?
Although illness can never be completely prevented, employers can certainly influence the duration and impact of sick leave. Prevention, attention to mental health, and timely support are crucial in this regard.
Get a handle on absenteeism in your organization
Long-term sick leave shows how vulnerable organizations can be to unexpected absences. That is precisely why it is important not only to focus on prevention, but also to be well prepared for the financial consequences when illness does persist for a longer period of time. Do you know whether your organization is adequately insured for unexpected employee illness? Or do you need independent advice on absenteeism risks and appropriate solutions? At Schouten Zekerheid , we Schouten Zekerheid happy Schouten Zekerheid you and provide clear and personalized advice so that you, as an employer, know where you stand.