Economic benefits of mental well-being over time: Results from the Netherlands mental health survey and incidence study-2

Abstract

Objectives Understanding economic benefits associated with improved mental well-being in the general population is important for informing population-level strategies. We aimed to estimate the economic impact associated with changes in mental well-being in the Dutch adult population. Study design This study was based on a longitudinal cohort (the Netherlands Mental Health Survey and Incidence Study-2) Methods 5303 adults aged 18–64 years. Were included. Three measurements, each separated by a time interval of three years, were used to evaluate how a change in well-being predicts a change in costs. Well-being was measured using the Mental Health Continuum-Short Form. Societal costs encompassed three cost categories: 1) healthcare costs; 2) productivity losses; and 3) patient and family costs. Main analysis was based on a model where a change in costs Y(t2-t1) was regressed on a synchronically occurring change in well-being X(t2-t1). Additionally, this model was compared with a diachronic model where a subsequent change in costs was regressed on a preceding change in well-being, i.e. Y(t3-t2) on X(t2-t1). Results Each %-point increase in mental well-being reduced societal costs by –€50.74 (95 %CI: €78.72; –€22.76) per person, which was statistically significant (SE = 14.27, t = −3.56, p < 0.001). The majority of these savings (89 %) were attributable to increased productivity. In the diachronic model, no significant difference between wellbeing and subsequent costs was found. Conclusion This study demonstrated that improvements in mental well-being are potentially associated with simultaneously occurring cost reductions, primarily through increased productivity. Hence, there may be potential for mental well-being interventions to reduce societal costs and enhance productivity at a population level.