Sick leave for mental health reasons: the delicate management of work-related disorders

Mental health professionals are crucial in assessing workplace psychological distress, as mental health issues have become a leading cause of long-term sick leave. The French government is addressing this issue amid budget debates, implementing measures to limit sick leave prescriptions. Since September 1, initial sick leave prescriptions are capped at one month, with renewals limited to two months. Additionally, the duration of compensation for certain long-term illnesses has been reduced from three years to one year. Further reforms are expected as social partners are tasked with agreeing on a structural reform by December 19 to achieve significant savings by 2027.