75% of young get disability for mental illness

In Denmark, 75% of individuals under 40 who are granted disability pensions are diagnosed with mental disorders, the highest ratio ever reported according to the Danish Agency for Labour Market and Recruitment. A decade ago, the figure was 60.9%, but it has now risen to 76.6% between the third quarter of 2023 and the second quarter of 2024. Common mental disorders include depression, anxiety, stress, and OCD. The process for granting disability pension is extensive and typically includes various rehabilitation and treatment measures. As of July, there were 38,390 people under 40 on disability pension—a record high and a 38.7% increase over five years. This trend indicates the growing issue of poor mental health among young Danes and raises concerns about future mental health trends, according to Nicoline Rosenlund, health chief at Sampension.