Mental Health

Deciding to seek help for your mental health can be a difficult step to take, but it is especially daunting when you are living in a foreign country. Language, cost and quality can all be a source of fear when deciding to talk to someone but thankfully, the mental healthcare system in The Netherlands is exceptional!

Getting a Referral

In order to see a psychiatrist (psychiater) or psychologist (psycholoog), you will need a referral from your family doctor or general practitioner (huisarts).

There are different kinds of psychological help offered such as counseling, coaching and several forms of therapy. Your doctor will help you to determine what specialist is best to see and how long the waiting lists are. Once a specialist is selected, the doctor will write a referral for you.

Primary mental healthcare

Primary mental healthcare treats mild to moderate psychological issues. These treatments are shorter and usually last less than one year. They are also centered around specific complaints. Primary care treatment includes in-person counselling and online mental health support (e-health), or a combination of both. Contact your GP if you have longer periods of sadness, sleeplessness, feel irritated, lack focus and concentration or experience physical symptoms like headache, palpitations or stomach issues. More severe symptoms can include:

• Self isolation
• Feeling confused or acting strangely
• Not taking care of your self
• Losing weight for no reason
• Feeling numb / not in the mood for doing anything

Secondary mental healthcare

Secondary mental healthcare treats people with more complex psychological conditions that require a longer period of time to treat Some examples of conditions are Attention-Deficit Disorder (ADHD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). anxiety disorder, personality disorders, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and schizophrenia.

Language

If you don’t speak Dutch, don’t worry! Most doctors will be able to help you find a specialist that speaks English.

If you are not comfortable speaking English or Dutch, you can ask your doctor can help you find a specialist that speaks a language you are more comfortable with. It might not always be possible, but it’s not a problem to ask.

Costs

In the Netherlands, health insurance covers all or part of the costs of primary and secondary mental health care (apart from your mandatory deductible). The exact conditions depend on your insurer and the policy you have, so you should check your policy or contact your insurer for more information.

If you are worried about the costs, it is a good idea to double check with your doctor that the selected specialist is covered by health insurance before you are referred.

Mental Health Resources

There are several organizations in the Netherlands dedicated to offering mental health support for anyone experiencing mental or social struggles, or for those dealing with depression, anxiety, or relationship tensions.

For immediate support: 

• 113 Suicide Prevention Hotline: The Netherlands’ national suicide prevention hotline, available 24/7 for confidential help via phone or online chat. You can anonymously contact 113 Suicide Prevention by calling 113 (normal calling costs) or 0800 0113 (free of charge) or use the “Chat” button on their website. They have a strong international orientation and many of their trained volunteers can help you in English.

For further support:

• U-Center: Call 0800 – 222 444 6 (weekdays from 9:00 – 20:00). U- Center is an expert in treating anxiety, depression, substance abuse and trauma.
• Thuisarts: Informative website including the different symptoms and links to where to get help .
• MIND Korrelatie: Provides anonymous psychological support via phone or chat for those experiencing emotional distress.
• Alles Oké?: Provides a listening ear to anyone aged 18 to 25 years old between 14:00 and 22:00. Whatever you may be struggling with or want to talk about, you can discuss confidentially.
• Kindertelefoon (Children’s Helpline): Are you under 18 and want to discuss something you don’t feel comfortable discussing with your parents or teachers? Call the Kindertelefoon for free or start a chat with them; you can talk about anything you want.
• All Ears (Groningen): Provides support to students that need a listening ear. Based in Groningen, they offer walk-in consultation hours every Wednesday from 14:00 – 16:00. You do not need to schedule an appointment beforehand.
• Jimmys 050 (Groningen and Leeuwarden): Provides a safe space for anyone aged 12 to 27 years old. You can do all kinds of activities, such as workshops, courses, events and more. Jimmy’s caters to all young people, regardless of their background or interests.

More information on available services in the Netherlands can be found here.

While seeking help can feel overwhelming or scary, it’s an important step toward healing and personal growth; by investing time and energy into your mental well-being, you’re making a crucial commitment to your most valuable asset—yourself.