Half of workers in Luxembourg suffer from mental stress
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According to the Quality of Work Index study conducted by the University of Luxembourg and the Chamber of Labour, 51% of employees in Luxembourg experience high levels of mental stress. At risk are women, young people aged 25 to 34, single parents, and workers in the HoReCa, health and social care sectors.
The survey showed that work intensity, working hours, social relationships (especially with management) and working conditions are key factors affecting mental health and risk of substance dependence.
HoReCa (hotel and restaurant) workers were particularly vulnerable, where:
- 49% of employees suffer from burnout;
- 40% are experiencing mental stress;
- 48.9 per cent suffer from sleep disorders;
- 21.3 per cent had thought about suicide.
Problems are also acute in trade, passenger transport, health, social, financial and insurance sectors.
49% of respondents recognised the need to review their drinking habits. In addition:
- 14% of employees have consumed alcohol at work or during breaks;
- 9.6 per cent drink once a week or less;
- 5% were taking medication without medical necessity;
- 0.5% used cannabis and 0.3% used other drugs in the workplace.
The Luxembourg Chamber of Labour calls for:
- regulate working hours to reduce stress and burnout;
- Introduce legislative measures to prevent addictions in the workplace;
- support the mental health of employees by developing comprehensive psychological support programmes.
Nora Back, president of the Chamber of Labour, notes: "Instead of constantly emphasising sickness absences, policy makers should look at why employees are sick, rather than simply recording absences. The increasing intensity of work and the lack of work-life balance increases the risk of stress and addictions".
While the Quality of Work Index has remained relatively stable at 54.3 in 2024 versus 54.6 in 2023, the overall trend since 2014 has been downward.
This indicates a gradual deterioration of working conditions and an increase in mental stress among employees.
The Luxembourg labour market is facing new challenges in the field of mental health and addiction prevention.
Employers and government agencies should develop comprehensive measures to support workers
