On Thursday, the Chamber discussed suicide as a point of order, leading MPs to focus on the potential staff shortages the mental health sector is facing. Currently, there are around 100 psychiatrists working in the country, with an average age of 54 years. Given these circumstances, it is estimated that 80% of them will retire over the next 15 years. Dr Paul Hédo explained that this poses a number of problems, since the sector's recent recruitment efforts are not considered to have been effective.
Dr Hédo believes that the profession is not extremely attractive to young professionals, as most insurances do not cover their services and thus make it more difficult to find clients. Furthermore, working conditions in hospitals, as well as their schedules, can be challenging.
Nevertheless, it seems clear that the issue has received unanimous recognition in the Chamber, which means that eventually, investments in the recruitment process will be facilitated. However, social security partners need to be on boat as well, Dr Hédo emphasised: "The National Health Fund needs to understand the importance of covering mental health treatments." It is therefore crucial that the government conveys the message, Dr Hédo concluded.
Demand remains elevated and is not expected to fall in the foreseeable future. Dr Hédo underlined that people are increasingly struggling to withstand the psychological pressures of daily life. "Mental health will be one of the greatest challenges of the upcoming decades", Dr Hédo concluded.
