A Positive shift in the Netherlands, a transformation is taken place

In recent years, a quiet but hopeful transformation has been taking place in the Netherlands: mental health is increasingly recognized as a crucial part of overall well-being. What was once treated as a private matter—or worse, a source of shame—is now a topic of national conversation. From classrooms and boardrooms to social media and government policy, there is a clear and growing awareness that mental health deserves the same attention and care as physical health.

This cultural shift is not only changing how individuals view their own emotional struggles, but also how society supports people dealing with psychological challenges. While significant work remains to be done, the direction of travel is encouraging—and even inspiring.

A generation that dares to speak

One of the most striking elements of this transformation is the role of young people. Generation Z—those born in the late 1990s and early 2000s—are not only more open about mental health than previous generations, they are actively shaping the narrative. On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, they share their experiences with anxiety, depression, ADHD, eating disorders, and more. Vulnerability is no longer something to hide, but something to acknowledge and discuss.

This open attitude is having real-world effects. According to data from the Dutch Trimbos Institute, young people are seeking help for mental health issues earlier than ever before. Instead of waiting until symptoms become unmanageable, many now reach out during the early stages—often using digital platforms as their first step.

Moreover, this generation is more likely to advocate for systemic change: they push for mental health days in schools, demand psychological support services at universities, and challenge outdated attitudes in families and workplaces.

Education system taking mental health seriously

The shift in attitude is mirrored in the education sector. More and more Dutch schools are incorporating mental well-being into their curricula, teaching skills like emotional regulation, mindfulness, and resilience alongside academic subjects. Pilot programs focused on mental health literacy have shown promising results, helping students recognize and articulate their feelings, reduce stigma, and support one another.

Universities and colleges, facing rising levels of stress and burnout among students, are responding with expanded access to mental health professionals, student well-being centers, peer support networks, and dedicated “quiet spaces” on campus.

In addition, student organizations and national campaigns such as MIND Us—an initiative supported by Queen Máxima—are working to normalize mental health conversations and empower young people to prioritize their emotional well-being.

Changing work culture: from productivity to people

Mental health is also making its way onto the corporate agenda. While Dutch workplaces have long been known for a healthy work-life balance compared to many other countries, burnout rates have nonetheless risen in recent years, particularly during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

In response, more employers are implementing mental health strategies. These include in-house counseling services, flexible work arrangements, stress-prevention training, and support for employees returning from mental health-related leave. Initiatives such as the Week van de Werkstress (National Work Stress Week) draw attention to the importance of sustainable work practices.

Increasingly, Dutch companies understand that prioritizing mental well-being is not just a moral imperative, but also an economic one: mentally healthy employees are more engaged, creative, and resilient.

A digital landscape of support

The mental health sector is also evolving rapidly, thanks in part to technological innovation. A growing number of online therapy platforms—such as Mindler, OpenUp, and NiceDay—now provide accessible and affordable psychological support for Dutch residents. These platforms offer therapy sessions via video call, often without long waiting times, and are increasingly covered by health insurance providers.

Self-help apps focused on meditation, sleep, stress management, and CBT (cognitive behavioral therapy) techniques are also growing in popularity. These tools, combined with online communities and forums, make it easier than ever for individuals to access support on their own terms.

Although the traditional mental health care system (GGZ) still faces significant pressure—particularly with long wait times for specialized care—the growing range of digital and preventative options is helping to relieve some of that burden.

From shame to shared humanity

Perhaps the most profound change is in the collective mindset. Mental health is no longer something that “other people” struggle with—it’s recognized as a universal part of being human. People are increasingly aware that everyone faces emotional challenges at some point in their lives, and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Public figures in the Netherlands—from artists and influencers to athletes and politicians—are contributing to this cultural shift by speaking openly about their own mental health journeys. These testimonies help dismantle stigma and create a space for more people to come forward and feel seen.

Moreover, policy makers are beginning to take these issues more seriously. Government investments in youth mental health, suicide prevention, and community mental wellness programs signal a growing commitment to long-term, structural change.

Looking to the future

There are still challenges ahead. Structural issues such as healthcare staffing shortages, social inequality, and rising living costs continue to exert psychological pressure on large segments of the population. But the momentum for change is there—and it is being led by individuals, communities, and institutions working together to create a culture of care.

As the Netherlands continues to move forward on this path, it could serve as a model for how modern societies can place mental well-being at the heart of public life. By embracing openness, empathy, and innovation, the country is showing that progress in mental health is not only possible, but already well underway.

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Sources for reference:

• Trimbos Institute (NL)
• MIND Us initiative
• Statistics Netherlands (CBS)
• Dutch Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport (VWS)
• National news outlets (NRC, De Volkskrant)
• Mental health platforms (Mindler, OpenUp, etc.)