Almost one in eight Dutch people suffer from insomnia. This makes it harder to keep working, according to a study by SEO Economic Research. And that costs society at least 3 billion euros per year.
People with severe sleep problems work less, are more often sick, or are less productive in the workplace. They also more often have mental health problems.
The 1.4 million people who chronically lie awake a lot earn an average of 800 euros less per year. 36,000 people receive benefits.
Many of the problems can be solved with cognitive behavioral therapy. This is a proven method for chronic insomnia. But general practitioners often still prescribe sleeping medication. This is probably due to the shortage of psychologists. Furthermore, insurers do not reimburse treatment by a psychologist from basic mental health care.
Behavioral therapy costs an average of around 600 euros. Someone who gets rid of their insomnia yields an average of 1,900 euros, for example in wage income, according to the researchers. In addition, people without insomnia are healthier and experience a higher quality of life.