Rising Mental Health Concerns Signal Systemic Failures in German Workplace
A concerning trend of increasing sick leave attributed to mental health issues is prompting urgent calls for action from German labor unions. The AOK’s 2025 Absence Report highlights a significant rise in employees taking time off due to psychological distress, a development that the German Trade Union Confederation (DGB) is characterizing as a critical warning sign.
“The growing number of individuals experiencing mental health challenges in the workplace is an alarm bell that employers must take seriously” stated DGB board member Anja Piel in an interview with the Rheinische Post. She pointed to years of relentless pressure, demanding workloads and increased work intensification as key contributors to the escalating problem.
Piel’s critique focused on the recurring failure of employers to fulfill their legal obligations regarding workplace risk assessment. Current legislation mandates that employers identify and mitigate potential psychological stressors impacting individual employees. However, the DGB argues that these regulations are routinely ignored, often due to a lack of adequate oversight and enforcement.
“Too many companies are failing to implement these vital protections” Piel asserted. Her call to action emphasizes the need for stricter regulatory enforcement, including increased inspections and a robust system for ensuring compliance with workplace safety regulations. This, she believes, is a crucial starting point for improving the overall health and well-being of the German workforce.
The rising figures underscore a broader discussion about the structure and demands of modern employment, raising questions about the responsibilities of both employers and policymakers in safeguarding the mental health of employees and preventing burnout within the German labor market. The DGB’s concerns extend beyond immediate remedial measures, hinting at a potential need for systemic reforms to address the underlying causes of workplace stress and promote a more sustainable approach to work.