Stop the silent crisis: shorten mental health waiting lists
Thousands of people are waiting for help
In the Netherlands, thousands of people - and to be precise, at least 97,000 to 400,000 people - are still waiting for mental health care (GGZ) help. Waiting times increase to 6 to 7 months, while mental health complaints worsen. This has far-reaching consequences: people become further isolated, lose their jobs and sometimes even their zest for life. This is why we from the Hypnosis Institute Netherlands (HIN) launched a petition on January 28 to stop this silent crisis. Within a day and a half the counter already stood at almost four thousand signatures.
Mental health cuts worsen crisis
According to Edwin Selij, director of the HIN, the situation is terribly dire: "We all know someone with mental health problems or anxiety. The waiting times are far too long and in the meantime cuts in the mental health services continue. This is incomprehensible. Something has to be done now."
On Thursday, Jan. 30, the report of the Expert Committee on Youth Reform Agenda led by Tamara van Ark was released. The conclusion is clear: the pressure for reform must increase and the austerity cramp must disappear. This fits exactly with our appeal. We want people on the waiting list to be helped as quickly as possible. Hypnotherapy can play an important role in this.
Hypnotherapy: a faster and cheaper solution
Hypnotherapy can provide a solution to the long wait times in the mental health system. Whereas traditional therapies often require 15 sessions, hypnotherapy often offers improvement after only 3 to 5 sessions. This means faster help and lower costs. Scientific research shows that hypnotherapy is effective for anxiety, depression and pain. Moreover, it saves society millions of dollars in sick leave and long-term care.
Hypnotherapy in Hospitals
In the Netherlands, hypnotherapy is already successfully used in about 70 hospitals, including Erasmus MC and AMC Amsterdam. There, it helps patients with anxiety, pain and medical procedures. They experience faster relief and need less heavy medication. Why don't we utilize this proven effective method more widely?
Sign the petition: stop the silent crisis
Waiting times in the mental health system are a silent crisis that we can no longer ignore. The HIN and the hypnotherapists involved are calling on all Dutch people to sign the petition. "No one should have to wait months for help. Help us make this change and sign the petition." Together we can ensure a healthier future. Make your voice heard and sign the petition at hypnotherapy.petities.nl.
Thank you very much,
on behalf of all the awardees and Hypnosis Institute Netherlands.
Advice for people on the waiting list
Are you a wait on the mental health waiting list now? If you are on the mental health waiting list right now, there are some steps you can take to better navigate this difficult period:
- Find support in your community - Talk to friends, family or peers about your feelings and experiences. Support from your social network can make a big difference.
- Explore alternative therapies - Hypnotherapy, mindfulness and other complementary treatment methods may be able to provide relief. Visit www.bestetherapeut.nl to find a suitable therapist near you.
- Stay active and provide structure - Daily routines, exercise and healthy eating contribute to your mental well-being and can help you feel better.
- Try relaxation techniques - Breathing exercises, meditation and relaxation exercises can reduce stress and anxiety.
- Keep in touch with your doctor - Discuss your situation regularly with your doctor. Sometimes interim solutions or other options can be offered.