Access to psychiatric care has become increasingly difficult, with long waiting times for appointments and high costs for private services, a situation worsened by the rise in mental health issues following the COVID pandemic.

In recent years, workplaces have shifted their focus towards profitability, often at the expense of humane management practices, which has contributed to a rise in mental health issues such as burnout.

This troubling trend is reflected in the alarming statistic that over one-third of Francophone Belgians have experienced suicidal thoughts at some point in their lives.

The lack of adequate support systems for patients, particularly those reliant on incapacity benefits, complicates their ability to manage their health and wellbeing.

The process for applying for incapacity benefits can be lengthy, often taking five to six years, during which patients face regular assessments before being considered for pension.

Moreover, permanent disability statistics related to mental health can be misleading, as many individuals also suffer from multiple somatic conditions alongside their mental disorders.

Dr. Audrey De Coninck, a medical advisor at Solidaris Wallonie Centre since 2009, notes that many patients come from challenging backgrounds, which complicates their recovery amid complex life circumstances.

Additionally, some individuals experience severe anxiety about returning to work, even after extended periods in adapted work environments.

The longer an incapacity lasts, the more severe the consequences may become, underscoring the critical need for timely intervention.