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Depression-Related Work Absences in Germany Surge by 50% in 2024

The DAK-Gesundheit Psychreport 2025 highlights a significant rise in mental health-related absences, especially in high-stress sectors and among older workers, prompting calls for systemic action.

Die Zahl der Fehltage wegen Depressionen ist in Deutschland deutlich gestiegen
Die Dauer einer durchschnittlichen Krankschreibung wegen einer psychischen Erkrankung liegt bei knapp 33 Tagen
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Overview

  • Mental health-related absences in Germany rose to 342 days per 100 employees in 2024, up from 323 days in 2023, with depression alone accounting for a 50% increase in work absences.
  • Workers in childcare and eldercare sectors were disproportionately affected, reflecting sector-specific vulnerabilities to mental health challenges.
  • Older employees, particularly those over 60, experienced a sharp rise in depression-related absences, increasing from 169 to 249 days per 100 workers in 2024.
  • The average duration of a mental health-related sick leave rose slightly to 33 days in 2024, with long-term absences of 29 to 42 days increasing by 14%.
  • DAK-Gesundheit has called for greater mental health awareness, destigmatization, and expanded support services to address the growing crisis in Germany's workforce.