The CHS Helpline experienced a sharp increase in demand during 2025, with full-year call figures showing unprecedented growth. The surge highlights the growing need for accessible emotional and mental health support in Belgium, particularly at times of acute distress.
During the year, some 5,300 callers to the 24/7 CHS Helpline were able to connect with a volunteer, an increase of just over 19% compared with 2024.
At the same time, the average duration of calls rose by 6%, pointing to more complex and in-depth conversations with people struggling to cope with their lives. The number of calls from people experiencing suicidal thoughts was up 4% year on year.
The number of unique callers to the Helpline rose by more than 22% in 2025, indicating that more individuals are turning to CHS for support. CHS also saw continued growth in calls from other countries, with calls from non-Belgian numbers – while still a small minority – increasing by more than 35%.
BELGIUM’S MENTAL HEALTH CHALLENGE
According to Sciensano, Belgium’s national public health institute, mental health difficulties are now widespread.
Nearly one in five Belgians report experiencing mental health difficulties, with young people particularly affected. National survey data shows that anxiety now affects 13% of the population, up from 11% in 2018, while depression has risen from 9% to 13% over the same period.
Callers to the CHS Helpline don’t need to be in a crisis to reach out. Many are lonely or facing difficulties with personal relationships or their jobs, and just need an empathetic listener. The Helpline saw the number of “support calls”, which excludes calls from people with suicidal thoughts, grow by 25% in 2025 from the year before.
GROWING PUBLIC AWARENESS
Commenting on the latest call figures, CHS President Jeremy Jennings said the increase in demand reflects rising awareness of the Brussels-based organisation as an important resource for what has become a serious public health challenge.
“We welcome the growth in demand for the Helpline, as it shows that more people are reaching out for help when they need it,” he said.
“At the same time, these figures remind us of the growing mental health struggles faced by many in today’s world. CHS has become a leading mental health resource in Belgium, offering accessible, compassionate support through our Helpline as well as through our mental health centre.”
Alongside the Helpline, a CHS Mental Health Centre provides in-person consultations with a team of qualified mental health professionals.
Jennings added that increased public awareness has played an important role in the Helpline’s continued growth.
“Our partnership with the Darkness Into Light suicide prevention charity in 2025 highlighted our Helpline like never before, ensuring that more people know where to turn for support.”
JOIN THE CHS HELPLINE TEAM
In response to this growth in demand, CHS has been actively recruiting new volunteers from across Belgium to join its Helpline team – but more are needed urgently. While CHS is committed to offering a safe, confidential, and compassionate space for all callers, too many calls currently go unanswered because there just aren’t enough trained volunteers to take them.
If you are interested in making a meaningful contribution and helping people in distress, volunteering for the CHS Helpline may be for you. CHS provides comprehensive training, ongoing support, and professional supervision for all volunteers.
To register your interest or find out more about volunteering for the Helpline, please complete the application form on the CHS website.