Mental health support
Settling into a new country brings a lot of change at once, and it's completely normal for that to affect how you feel. Belgium has a well-organised mental health system, and support is more accessible, and more affordable, than many newcomers expect.
This guide explains how to find support, what it costs, and where to turn if you need help urgently.
Overview
Like physical healthcare, mental health support in Belgium usually starts with your GP and runs through your mutuality for reimbursement. You don't need a specific diagnosis to reach out — talking to a professional early, even about everyday stress or homesickness, is a normal and encouraged first step.
Getting started
Your GP is a good starting point if you're not sure what kind of support you need. They can talk through what you're experiencing and refer you to the right professional, whether that's a psychologist, psychiatrist, or a specialised service.
You can also contact support services directly, without a referral:
- A CGG (Centrum Geestelijke Gezondheidszorg, or mental health centre) — regional centres offering low-threshold psychological support, often with English-speaking staff.
- A psychologist in private practice — you can book directly, and many list their languages spoken online.
Types of support available
Belgium distinguishes between a few types of professionals, each suited to different needs:
- Psychologist — talk therapy and counselling; cannot prescribe medication.
- Psychiatrist — a medical doctor who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medication, usually reached via referral.
- CGG (mental health center) — a team-based service covering a wide range of concerns, often a good first stop if you're unsure where to start.
Cost and reimbursement
Since 2019, a set number of sessions with a registered psychologist are partially reimbursed through your mutuality, similar to a GP visit. This makes regular sessions considerably more affordable than paying the full private rate.
A few points worth knowing:
- Reimbursement applies to registered psychologists working within the conventioneer system; ask when booking if this applies.
- Your mutuality can confirm your remaining reimbursed sessions for the year.
- Private-practice rates without reimbursement vary, so it's worth asking about cost upfront.
Urgent support
If you or someone you know needs to talk to someone urgently, free and confidential helplines are available across Belgium:
- Tele-Onthaal — 106, available every day, in Dutch (English-speaking volunteers may be available)
- Centre for prevention of suicide — 1813, available 24/7
If it's not a crisis but you'd rather not wait, a few resources can help you find support quickly:
- Vind-een-Psycholoog.be — the official directory for finding a registered (geconventioneerd) psychologist or psychotherapist near you.
- doctoranytime and similar apps — for browsing availability and booking directly.
- IHWF community events — connecting with other internationals can also help you feel less alone while you arrange professional support.
Good to know: You don't need to wait for a crisis to reach out. Many internationals only look for support once things feel overwhelming, but talking to a GP or a CGG early on, even just to talk through the adjustment, is a normal and welcomed step here.
If you're personally going through a difficult time, please know that support is available, and reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
Sources
- Health and social security — vlaanderen.be
- FPS Public Health — health.belgium.be
