1 in 3 employees at nursing homes have a difficult mental work environment. Credit: Pexels, Matthias Zomer
A new analysis from the Economic Council of the Labour Movement (Arbejderbevægelsens Erhvervsråd, AE) has revealed that nearly one in three nursing home workers in Denmark experience severe psychological stress in their workplace.
The findings highlight a significant mental health crisis across various industries, with social institutions and hospitality workers also highly affected.
Widespread stress and poor mental health across industries
The study found that 17.4 per cent of all Danish employees – equivalent to approximately 300,000 workers – struggle with a psychologically challenging work environment. However, this figure is much higher in certain industries:
- 33.5 per cent of nursing home employees report severe psychological strain.
- 29.5 per cent of workers in social institutions (including home care services and children’s institutions) are affected.
- 24.5 per cent of hotel and restaurant employees also experience high levels of workplace stress.
- Comparatively, only 8.9 per cent of workers in the pharmaceutical industry and 10.9 per cent in construction report similar struggles.
Women are more affected by poor mental health at work than men
The findings indicate that women are disproportionately affected, with 20.3 per cent of female workers experiencing severe workplace stress compared to 14.8 per cent of men. The report suggests that this is due to the overrepresentation of women in sectors like social care and healthcare, where high emotional demands and exposure to distressing situations are common.
Violence and harassment at work
In addition to workplace stress, the report found alarming trends in workplace harassment and violence: 18.3 per cent of employees reported experiencing harassment at work in the past year. 9 per cent were subjected to bullying by colleagues or managers. 8.8 per cent faced physical violence or threats while working.
The AE report highlights the urgent need for improved mental health policies in workplaces, particularly in high-risk industries. Unions and labour organisations in Denmark are calling for better working conditions, including greater support for employees facing mental strain, improved management structures, and better work-life balance policies.
For expats working in Denmark or considering a move, these findings highlight the challenges faced in certain professions, particularly in health and social care.
For more information, you can read the full AE report here: AE Analysis.
How would you feel knowing that your elderly loved one’s carer had mental health issues? Let us know in the comments below.
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