A comprehensive study released on Friday, October 10, 2025, by the European branch of the World Health Organization (WHO) has laid bare a profound mental health crisis gripping healthcare professionals across Europe. The report, drawing from an extensive survey of 90,000 healthcare workers across 29 European countries, reveals that one in three doctors and nurses is grappling with depression or anxiety—a rate five times higher than that observed in the general European population. This alarming statistic underscores a deepening "health security crisis" that threatens the very foundation of Europe’s healthcare systems, according to WHO Europe Director Hans Kluge.
The findings paint a grim picture of the psychological toll borne by those tasked with safeguarding public health. More than one in ten healthcare professionals reported experiencing suicidal thoughts or considering self-harm, a prevalence twice as high as that seen in the general population. Kluge described this as an "unacceptable burden on those who care for us," emphasizing that the mental health struggles of doctors and nurses are not only a personal tragedy but also a systemic failure that jeopardizes patient care and the resilience of healthcare infrastructures.
The study identifies poor working conditions as a primary driver of this mental health crisis. Healthcare workers subjected to violence, excessively long hours, and night shifts are significantly more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. Workplace violence is disturbingly common, with one-third of doctors and nurses reporting experiences of bullying or violent threats in the past year. Additionally, ten percent of respondents disclosed incidents of physical violence or sexual harassment, highlighting the unsafe environments in which many healthcare professionals operate. These hostile conditions not only exacerbate mental health challenges but also erode the morale and well-being of those on the frontlines of care.
Workplace pressures further compound the crisis. The report notes that one in four doctors works over 50 hours per week, a grueling schedule that contributes to burnout and mental distress. Temporary employment contracts, which affect over 30% of doctors and a quarter of nurses, are another significant source of anxiety, as job insecurity weighs heavily on these professionals. The constant fear of losing employment, coupled with the demanding nature of their roles, creates a vicious cycle of stress and mental health deterioration.
The study also highlights disparities in mental health outcomes based on gender and profession. Nurses and female doctors are disproportionately affected by depression and anxiety, reflecting the unique pressures they face, including higher exposure to workplace harassment and emotional labor. In contrast, male doctors are more likely to develop alcohol addiction, suggesting gendered patterns in how healthcare professionals cope with stress. These findings underscore the need for tailored interventions that address the specific vulnerabilities of different groups within the healthcare workforce.
Geographically, the mental health crisis among healthcare workers varies significantly across Europe. Latvia and Poland reported the highest levels of depression, with nearly half of surveyed healthcare professionals indicating symptoms, while Denmark and Iceland recorded the lowest rates, at approximately 15%. These variations may reflect differences in healthcare system structures, workplace cultures, and access to mental health resources, pointing to the need for region-specific strategies to address the crisis.
In response to these sobering findings, the WHO report calls for urgent systemic reforms to protect the mental health of healthcare workers. Key recommendations include implementing a zero-tolerance policy for violence and harassment in healthcare settings, overhauling the culture of excessive overtime, and ensuring guaranteed access to mental health services for professionals. These measures are critical not only for the well-being of doctors and nurses but also for the sustainability of Europe’s healthcare systems, which face a projected shortage of nearly one million health workers by 2030. Kluge emphasized the stakes, stating, “We cannot afford to lose them to burnout, despair, or violence.”
The report serves as a clarion call for governments, healthcare institutions, and policymakers to act swiftly to address the systemic issues driving this crisis. Without meaningful reforms, the mental health toll on healthcare professionals will continue to escalate, threatening the quality of care and the resilience of health systems across the continent. By prioritizing the well-being of those who dedicate their lives to caring for others, Europe can strengthen its healthcare workforce and ensure a healthier, more sustainable future for all.
