RC75 side event: Mental health and well-being of the health and care workforce

Mental health and well-being of the health and care workforce

10 October 2025, 10:00 to 11:30 (CEST), online

Health systems worldwide face growing challenges, with workforce retention and recruitment at the forefront. In the WHO European Region, health workforce shortages are projected to triple by 2030 compared to 2013.

This strain is worsening a mental health crisis among health and care workers, with around one third reporting symptoms consistent with depression or anxiety. The consequences include rising absenteeism, burnout and a growing inclination to leave the profession – underscoring the urgent need for targeted policies that prioritize retention and well-being. High-quality data are essential to inform these solutions.

In October 2024, WHO/Europe launched a survey among doctors and nurses in all European Union Member States, Iceland and Norway. The first of this kind and the largest to date with over 100 000 responses, the survey was developed in collaboration with the European Commission and is part of a broader effort to strengthen mental health systems and services across the Region.

At this side event, which falls on World Mental Health Day, WHO/Europe will unveil the survey’s findings, while engaging with partners and Member States. Participation is by invitation only.

This event is part of a series of side events to be held in the weeks preceding the 75th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe, engaging delegates, partners and health experts on developments, initiatives, tools and new reports relevant to health across the Region.