PTSD in the Netherlands: what the figures do and do not show
Dutch research provides estimates of both PTSD prevalence and reported treatment. The figures depend on definitions, timing, the sample and how treatment is classified.
Bigger than you think
1.3%
was the estimated current prevalence of DSM-5 PTSD in the Dutch population study.
1.6%
was the estimated current prevalence of ICD-11 complex PTSD. It is a separate classification, not simply a more severe variant.
29.7%
of 187 participants with probable lifetime PTSD reported a first-choice trauma-focused treatment such as EMDR, exposure or trauma-focused cognitive behavioural therapy.
How it was measured: 1,690 adults from the LISS panel completed questionnaires in 2023. A structured interview was also conducted with 204 participants. The study estimated 11.1% probable lifetime PTSD using the PCL-5; the current prevalence estimates of 1.3% PTSD and 1.6% complex PTSD came from the interview sample.
Who is missed most often
Risk factors for PTSD include younger age (16 to 49 years), female gender, lower education level and having been previously married. Complex PTSD occurs internationally in 3 to 8% of women compared to 1 to 3% of men.
“Insufficient questioning by professionals plays a role in missing the diagnosis, according to our own research into bottlenecks in PTSD care.”
It is not in the patient, but in the look
Symptoms point in all directions
PTSD can present itself as sleep problems, physical symptoms or relationship problems, not just as re-experiences.
Complex PTSD doesn't have its own box
Without a separate DSM-5 category, CPTSD is often confused with anxiety or a personality disorder.
Avoidance works both ways
Those who avoid the trauma often also avoid discussing it, even with the GP or practitioner.
What does and does not count
What is visible
- People who received a PTSD diagnosis
- Effectiveness of EMDR and trauma-focused CBT in research
- Treatment capacity within specialized mental healthcare
What is invisible remains
- Anyone with PTSD who never received guideline-compliant treatment
- Complex PTSD treated under another name
- The years between the trauma and the moment it became a topic of discussion
Where these figures come from
1.3% current PTSD, 1.6% current complex PTSD and 29.7% first-choice trauma-focused treatment
Extensive guideline with more treatment options
Insufficient questioning as a bottleneck
CPTSD not separately recognised in DSM-5, but in ICD-11 since 2022
🏎 Need immediate help?
In case of immediate danger to yourself or someone else: call 112. Are you in distress or are you thinking about suicide? You can call or chat with 113 Suicide Prevention day and night via 0800-0113. Zorgfuik is not a crisis service and cannot solve acute requests for help, but we think it is important that you know where you can go.
Reliable explanation and help
- Thuisarts: PTSS - explanation about signs, help and treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder.
- GGZ Standaarden - care standards and guidelines for Dutch mental healthcare.
Is recognition or diagnosis taking a long time?
Answer a few questions. You do not get a diagnosis or advice, but you do get points and questions you can take into a next conversation.