According to disability insurance statistics, 50 per cent of newly registered disability pensions in 2024 were due to psychological causes, and with people under the age of 30 as the vast majority. This is a phenomenon that affects society as a whole: Mental illnesses, such as depression and anxiety disorders, have long ceased to be the exception – one in two people in Switzerland will experience mental illness at some time in their life. This is a continuation of a trend in mental health that has been apparent for some years.
In the case of mental illness, there is a good chance that the person concerned will be able to return to work or take on a new role. According to studies, the highest likelihood of a person returning to work is if the disability insurance organization (IV) is notified within 30 working days. As soon as a prolonged inability to work becomes apparent, it is important to involve the insurance organization as quickly as possible, as it can provide support with its expertise. It is therefore crucial that employers and employees take action as early as possible. The disability insurance organization (IV) is also increasingly focusing on integration instead of pensions.
Early detection pays off. Corporate health management and external advisory services support and train employers to recognize warning symptoms early and provide targeted support to affected employees. If an incapacity to work arises, Case Management supports employers and their employees personally on-site, to ensure a return to work that is as smooth as possible. To this end, individual reintegration plans are developed, taking into account the company's requirements and the health situation of employees. For a successful return, the case manager coordinates with medical service suppliers, disability insurance offices or authorities, and organizes partners and specialist agencies. The person concerned is treated with respect and is supported in their return to work, and this opens up new perspectives that promote the reintegration process and strengthen self-esteem.
Successful reintegration and job retention also bring benefits for companies, as the costs of sickness-related absences can be significantly reduced and a proven specialist is retained. Seeking support at an early stage and involving Case Management promotes recovery and can prevent long-term absences, helping to ensure the valuable know-how of the people concerned is retained.
In the event of prolonged absences due to illness or accident, the Case Management of our insurance partner Zurich Switzerland provides personal support to companies and employees, from the first day until their return or reorientation. The focus is on individual solutions, empathy and close cooperation with doctors, authorities and other partners. Stories from life:
You can find out more about avoiding stress and preventing burnout here.
