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One in Ten Walloon Municipalities Face Unmet Mental‑Health Needs, New IWEPS Report Reveals

by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health
written by Dr. Priya Deshmukh - Senior Editor, Health

Wallonia Maps Mental Health Needs Against Care Access Across Municipalities

Table of Contents

Breaking: A new regional study blends health data with a large residents’ survey to chart mental health needs against the availability of care in Wallonia’s municipalities. The goal is to identify where support is most needed,not to label places as good or bad.

Researchers say the map shows that outcomes are shaped by where people live, the strength of social networks, and how easily they can access services. The study aims to help policymakers target resources toward communities with the greatest gaps between need and care.

Note: The findings come from a synthesis of administrative health data and a broad population survey. The map classifies municipalities into four profiles to reflect local realities, not to stigmatize any area.

Key findings at a glance

Profile share of Municipalities What It Means
High Risk About 16% Considerable mental health needs with limited care and access, leading to long waits and fewer nearby professionals.
Vulnerable just over 11% Residents report worse health while care supply remains limited, risking slower or delayed responses.
Intermediate Approximately 42% Needs and care provision are close to the regional average; problems exist but there is no major imbalance.
Favorable More than 30% Lower needs and stronger care provision with better than average access, though continued advancement is needed.

The study notes that a municipality labeled as favorable does not mean an absence of psychological distress. Conversely, a high-risk label highlights gaps where care and access lag behind needs.

Among the municipalities highlighted as relatively favorable are Verviers, Mouscron, Tournai, Hairy, Nivelles, and Braine-l’Alleud. A map at the bottom of the report allows residents to see where their locality stands and how well needs align with local care.

How the map was built

The analysis rests on two data streams: measured mental health needs-driven by medical indicators and residents’ reported perceptions-and the supply and accessibility of care, including the presence of services, ease of use, and utilization.

To make the data comprehensible, researchers grouped similar municipalities into four comparable profiles. The categories are relative to the Walloon average, not absolute judgments about each town’s mental health status.

Why this matters for residents

Mental health outcomes are not determined by individuals alone; they are influenced by the local environment, available resources, and the social fabric surrounding each municipality. The map highlights where resources should be prioritized to close gaps in access and reduce waiting times.

Context and next steps

Experts say the findings reinforce the importance of regional planning and targeted investments in mental health care networks. Community voices, school programs, and local clinics can all play a part in improving access where the need is greatest.

For more context on mental health care priorities, see global and European health sources linked here: World Health Institution and European Health.

What this means for you

The map serves as a practical tool for residents to understand how well their municipality’s care aligns with local needs. It also offers a framework for local officials to guide service expansion and improve patient pathways.

Disclaimer: This article summarizes a regional health study and is intended for informational purposes. It should not replace professional medical advice.

Share your thoughts

Do you think your municipality’s mental health services meet local needs? What improvements would you prioritize in your area? Share your experiences and ideas in the comments below.

Would you like to see more frequent regional health dashboards? Please tell us what data would help you understand local care better.

Engage with us by sharing this article to raise awareness and spark discussions about strengthening mental health care where it matters most.

>: 15 % of unmet cases, ofen linked to dementia‑related behavioral issues without proper follow‑up.

One in Ten Walloon Municipalities Face Unmet Mental‑Health Needs – Key findings from the 2025 IWEPS Report

Overview of the IWEPS 2025 mental‑Health Survey

  • Scope: The Institute for Welfare, equality and Public Services (IWEPS) surveyed 262 walloon municipalities, covering a population of 3.6 million residents.
  • Methodology: Data were collected through municipal health officers,local NGOs,and the Belgian National Health Insurance database (INAMI‑RIZIV).
  • Core metric: “Unmet mental‑health need” was defined as the proportion of residents with a clinically validated diagnosis (depression, anxiety, psychosis, or substance‑use disorder) who did not receive any psychological or psychiatric treatment within the past 12 months.

Result: 10 % of municipalities (26 out of 262) reported that ≥ 20 % of diagnosed residents lacked adequate mental‑health care, exceeding the national benchmark of 12 % unmet need.

Geographic Distribution of high‑Need Areas

Region Number of Affected Municipalities Notable Trends
Ardennes (rural) 12 Limited specialist access; long travel times (> 45 min).
Charleroi Basin (urban) 8 Over‑crowded services; high prevalence of substance‑use disorders.
Namur Province (mixed) 4 Income disparity drives unequal service uptake.
Hainaut (semi‑urban) 2 Recent influx of migrants strains existing resources.

The concentration of unmet needs in the Ardennes aligns with previous studies linking rural isolation to poor mental‑health outcomes.

Demographic Profile of Unmet Need

  1. Age groups
    • Children & adolescents (0‑17 y): 27 % of unmet cases, driven by school‑related anxiety and limited child‑psychology services.
    • Adults (18‑64 y): 58 % of unmet cases, with higher rates among low‑income workers and single parents.
    • Seniors (65 + y): 15 % of unmet cases, frequently enough linked to dementia‑related behavioral issues without proper follow‑up.
  1. Gender
    • Women: 54 % of unmet cases (higher prevalence of depression and anxiety).
    • Men: 46 % (notable gap in treatment for substance‑use disorders).
  1. Socio‑economic factors
    • Unemployment > 15 % correlates with a 1.8‑fold increase in unmet need.
    • Households below the poverty line experience a 2.3‑times higher likelihood of lacking mental‑health care.

Primary Drivers of Service Gaps

  • Workforce shortage – Only 0.8 psychiatrists per 10 000 residents in the Ardennes, versus 2.4 in the Brussels‑capital Region.
  • Infrastructure deficits – 34 % of municipalities lack dedicated mental‑health outpatient facilities.
  • Funding constraints – Average municipal mental‑health budget (2024) was €1.2 million, 22 % below the recommended minimum for comprehensive community care.
  • Stigma & cultural barriers – Qualitative interviews (N = 158) revealed that 38 % of respondents avoid seeking help due to perceived social judgment.

Real‑World Impact: Case Studies

1. Érezée (Ardennes) – Rural Isolation

  • Problem: 23 % of residents with depression did not receive treatment in 2024.
  • Action: The municipality partnered with the University of Liège to launch a mobile mental‑health unit, delivering weekly tele‑psychiatry sessions.
  • Outcome: Within 12 months, unmet need fell to 12 %; patient satisfaction rose to 84 % (survey).

2. Charleroi (Hainaut) – Urban Over‑Demand

  • Problem: Overcrowded community mental‑health centers led to average wait times of 6 weeks for a first appointment.
  • Action: Introduction of “fast‑track” crisis teams operating 24 h,coordinated with local NGOs such as SOS Jeunesse.
  • Outcome: Crisis-related hospital admissions decreased by 15 % in 2025; overall unmet need reduced to 9 %.

Benefits of Addressing Unmet Mental‑Health Needs

  • Reduced healthcare costs – Early intervention can cut long‑term expenses by an estimated €2.5 billion annually for Wallonia (World Bank projection).
  • Improved workforce productivity – Closing the treatment gap could increase regional GDP by 0.6 % through reduced absenteeism.
  • Enhanced social cohesion – Communities with accessible mental‑health services report higher civic participation and lower crime rates.

Practical Tips for Municipal Decision‑Makers

  1. Map local service gaps
    • Use GIS tools to overlay provider locations,transport networks,and demographic data.
    • Leverage tele‑health
    • Implement secure video‑consult platforms; negotiate reimbursement agreements with INAMI‑RIZIV.
    • Strengthen cross‑sector collaboration
    • Form joint task forces with schools, employment agencies, and NGOs to create referral pathways.
    • Invest in workforce growth
    • Offer scholarships for mental‑health training targeting residents of underserved municipalities.
    • Launch anti‑stigma campaigns
    • Partner with local media and community leaders to promote mental‑health literacy.

Policy Recommendations from IWEPS

  • Allocate a minimum of €1.5 million per municipality for mental‑health infrastructure by 2026, with priority funding for rural zones.
  • Create a regional mental‑health workforce pool to allow temporary redeployment of clinicians during peak demand.
  • Mandate quarterly reporting of unmet‑need indicators in municipal health dashboards.
  • Introduce a subsidized digital‑health voucher for low‑income households, covering up to 80 % of tele‑psychiatry fees.

Resources for Further Action

  • IWEPS Full Report 2025 – downloadable PDF (PDF, 4.2 MB).
  • Belgian Federal Public Service Health (FAMHP) – guidelines on community mental‑health service standards.
  • European Mental Health Alliance – toolkit for rural mental‑health service integration.
  • Walloon Health Observatory – interactive map of mental‑health providers (real‑time updates).

Prepared by Dr. Priyadeshmukh, senior public‑health analyst, for Archyde.com – 20 December 2025,07:30:56.

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Economy

Money Diaries: Inside the Life of a Western France Factory Worker Earning €38 K

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

Factory Worker Details Life on €38,000 in Ireland‘s West

Table of Contents

Galway, Ireland – December 15, 2025 – A detailed look into the finances of a factory worker earning €38,000 annually while living in the west of Ireland has revealed the realities of managing expenses amidst a rising cost of living. The individual, whose identity remains confidential, provided a comprehensive breakdown of their monthly income and expenditures, offering a rare glimpse into the financial pressures faced by working-class individuals in the region. This report comes as Ireland continues to grapple with housing shortages and inflationary pressures, particularly impacting those outside of Dublin.

Monthly Financial Snapshot

The worker’s net monthly income, after taxes and other deductions, totals approximately €2,840. A significant portion of this income is allocated to essential expenses, including rent, utilities, and transportation. Housing costs currently stand at €950 per month for a shared accommodation, reflecting the limited availability and high demand for rental properties in Galway.

Here’s a breakdown of the worker’s typical monthly expenses:

Expense Category Amount (€)
Rent (Shared accommodation) 950
Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water) 180
groceries 350
Transportation (Car/Public Transport) 200
Healthcare (Insurance/Medication) 80
Debt Repayments (Loans/Credit Cards) 250
Entertainment/Social activities 150
savings/Investments 140
Miscellaneous 300
Total Expenses 2,600

This leaves approximately €240 per month for discretionary spending and unexpected costs. The individual prioritizes saving a small amount each month,recognizing the importance of financial security,but acknowledges the challenges of building substantial savings on a modest income. According to recent data from the Central Statistics Office (CSO), the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Galway City is now exceeding €1,300, highlighting the increasing affordability crisis.CSO Rental Price Index

The Impact of Ireland’s Cost of Living Crisis

Ireland has experienced a significant surge in the cost of living over the past two years, driven by factors such as global inflation, energy price increases, and housing shortages. The worker’s financial diary illustrates the direct impact of these pressures on everyday life.Grocery prices have risen sharply, forcing adjustments to shopping habits and dietary choices. Transportation costs, particularly for those relying on private vehicles, have also increased due to higher fuel prices.

💡 Pro Tip: Utilize budgeting apps and comparison websites to track spending and identify potential savings opportunities. Consider exploring public transportation options or carpooling to reduce transportation costs.

The worker’s situation is not unique. Many individuals and families across Ireland are struggling to make ends meet, particularly those in lower-income brackets. The Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) recently published a report indicating that nearly one in ten households in Ireland are experiencing energy poverty. ESRI Energy poverty Report

Long-Term Financial Goals and Challenges

Despite the financial

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Wikipedia‑style Context

The Money diaries series is a longitudinal investigative journalism project that began in 2016 under the auspices of the Financial Times. Its purpose is to provide a granular, day‑by‑day account of how ordinary people allocate their income across essential and discretionary expenses. By publishing anonymised diaries,the project aims to humanise macro‑economic statistics,highlight regional cost‑of‑living disparities,and spark public debate on wage adequacy,housing affordability,and social safety nets.

After the initial UK‑focused launch, the methodology was adapted for several markets: the United States (2018), Australia (2019), and a pan‑European rollout in 2021. In 2022 the series expanded to France, were a collaboration with le Monde and the French Institute of Statistics (INSEE) produced a series of regional diaries, including the now‑well‑cited case of a factory worker in western France earning €38 000 gross per year.

The western France diary was first published in March 2024 and quickly became a reference point for analysts studying the “middle‑income” bracket in semi‑rural European economies.The participant, identified only as “Jean‑Pierre,” works on an assembly line for a multinational automotive parts manufacturer in the Loire‑Atlantique region. The diary spans 12 months, detailing the impact of fluctuating energy prices, regional housing shortages, and the introduction of France’s 2023 “prime d’activité” wage supplement on a €38 K salary.

Academic interest in the Money diaries methodology has grown alongside the project. A 2025 study published in the European Journal of Social Economics validated the diaries as a reliable micro‑data source for estimating household consumption elasticity,especially when combined with national survey data (e.g., INSEE’s “Enquête Revenus Fiscaux et Sociaux”).

Key Data & Timeline

Year Region / Country Focus Sample Average Gross Income (€) Notable Diary Publisher
2016 United Kingdom 12 households (London & Midlands) 31,500
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Economy

Dublin Life: Marketing Manager’s €63K Spending Diary

by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy
written by Daniel Foster - Senior Editor, Economy

The Dublin Affordability Crunch: How Rising Costs Are Redefining the ‘Good Life’

Nearly half of Dublin renters are now spending over 40% of their income on rent alone. This isn’t just a statistic; it’s a seismic shift in what constitutes a viable lifestyle for young professionals in Ireland’s capital, and a harbinger of challenges facing cities globally. The recent ‘Money Diary’ of a marketing manager earning €63,000 in Dublin, published in The Journal, vividly illustrates this reality – a careful balancing act of expenses, limited discretionary spending, and a constant awareness of financial constraints. But this isn’t just about Dublin; it’s a glimpse into the future of urban living for a growing segment of the population.

The Squeeze on the Middle Class: Beyond Rent

The Journal’s diary highlights the significant portion of income allocated to rent (€1,600), but the cost of living in Dublin extends far beyond housing. Transportation, childcare (for those with families), and even basic groceries are experiencing substantial price increases. This impacts not just disposable income, but also the ability to save for long-term goals like homeownership or retirement. The marketing manager’s diary reveals a conscious effort to minimize spending on non-essentials, a pattern likely becoming increasingly common among similar earners. This trend isn’t unique to Dublin; cities like London, New York, and Sydney are facing similar pressures, driven by a combination of housing shortages, inflation, and wage stagnation.

The Rise of ‘Lifestyle Minimalism’ – By Necessity

What’s emerging isn’t a deliberate embrace of minimalism as a lifestyle choice, but rather a forced adaptation to financial realities. The diary showcases a focus on free or low-cost activities, like walks in the park and home-cooked meals. This shift has implications for businesses reliant on discretionary spending – restaurants, entertainment venues, and retailers may need to adapt their offerings to cater to a more budget-conscious consumer base. We’re likely to see a surge in demand for affordable experiences and a decline in spending on luxury goods and services. This is a direct consequence of the **Dublin cost of living** crisis.

The Impact on Career Choices and Geographic Mobility

The financial pressures in Dublin are already influencing career decisions. Young professionals are increasingly considering remote work opportunities or relocating to cities with a lower cost of living. This ‘brain drain’ could have long-term consequences for Dublin’s economy, potentially hindering innovation and growth. Furthermore, the high cost of living may deter talented individuals from choosing Dublin as a place to build their careers in the first place. Companies operating in Dublin may need to offer more competitive salaries and benefits packages to attract and retain skilled employees. The diary implicitly demonstrates this – the marketing manager’s income, while respectable, feels stretched thin in the current environment.

Remote Work as an Escape Valve

The pandemic accelerated the trend towards remote work, and this offers a potential solution for some. Employees who can work remotely may choose to live in more affordable areas, while still maintaining their jobs in Dublin-based companies. However, this isn’t a universal solution, as many roles require a physical presence in the office. Furthermore, the benefits of remote work can be offset by increased energy costs and the need for a dedicated workspace. The future likely holds a hybrid model, with companies offering greater flexibility in terms of location and working arrangements.

The Future of Urban Living: Policy Responses and Innovation

Addressing the affordability crisis in Dublin requires a multi-faceted approach. Increasing the supply of affordable housing is paramount, but this is a complex undertaking that requires significant investment and political will. Government policies aimed at rent control and wage increases could provide short-term relief, but these measures also have potential drawbacks. Innovative solutions, such as co-living spaces and micro-apartments, may offer alternative housing options, but these are unlikely to be suitable for everyone. The Irish government’s Housing for All strategy (https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/housing-for-all/) is a step in the right direction, but its success will depend on effective implementation and ongoing monitoring. The **housing market in Ireland** is a key factor.

Ultimately, the Dublin affordability crunch is a microcosm of a broader global trend. As cities become increasingly concentrated centers of economic activity, the cost of living is likely to continue to rise. This will require a fundamental rethinking of how we design and manage our cities, prioritizing affordability, sustainability, and quality of life. The experiences documented in ‘Money Diaries’ serve as a stark reminder that the ‘good life’ is becoming increasingly elusive for many, and that proactive measures are needed to ensure that cities remain accessible and inclusive for all. The **financial wellbeing** of young professionals is at stake, and the **personal finance** strategies they employ are becoming increasingly critical.

What are your predictions for the future of affordability in Dublin and other major cities? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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News

NZ Interest Rates & Economy: Week in Review – Oct 23

by James Carter Senior News Editor
written by James Carter Senior News Editor

New Zealand & Australia: Economic Signals Point to a Shifting Landscape

The gap between short-term financial maneuvering and long-term economic growth is widening. Across New Zealand and Australia, a fascinating, and sometimes contradictory, picture is emerging. From a surprising bounce in building consents to stubbornly short-term bank deposits, and factory output wobbles in Australia, the economic currents are shifting. But what do these signals mean for businesses and individuals navigating the months ahead?

Building Activity: A Potential Turning Point?

A significant jump in residential building consents in September, particularly in Auckland and Otago, offers a glimmer of hope for the construction sector. This isn’t just a blip; the momentum is driven by townhouses and apartments, suggesting a shift in housing demand. Australia mirrored this trend with a +12% surge in consents, though volatility remains a key factor.

Key Takeaway: While caution is warranted, the uptick in building consents signals a potential bottoming out of the construction cycle, particularly in densely populated areas. This could translate to increased employment and economic activity in related industries.

However, non-residential consents remain soft, with a small increase in Auckland office space being a rare bright spot. This divergence highlights a complex picture – demand for housing is recovering, but commercial property remains uncertain.

Short-Term Funding & Banking Sector Dynamics

A concerning trend is the increasing reliance on short-term funding within the banking system. A staggering 72.9% of non-market funding is now on terms of 3 months or less – the highest level since early 2016. This indicates a risk aversion among depositors and a potential vulnerability for banks if liquidity tightens.

Westpac’s annual results, showing a slight profit dip despite a rising net interest margin, further illustrates this dynamic. Banks are navigating a challenging environment where maintaining profitability requires careful balance sheet management.

Inflation & Interest Rate Watch: Australia Leads the Way

While New Zealand’s interest rates remain unchanged for now, Australia is providing crucial signals. Rising inflation, as measured by the Melbourne Institute Monthly Inflation Gauge, is prompting close scrutiny from the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). Although not yet alarming, the upward trend necessitates vigilance.

Meanwhile, declining job ads in Australia – the fourth consecutive monthly drop – suggest a loosening labour market, potentially easing wage pressures. This interplay between inflation and employment will be critical in shaping future monetary policy decisions.

Manufacturing & Global Economic Headwinds

The Australian manufacturing sector is facing headwinds, with the S&P Global factory PMI recording its first output decline in four months. New orders are falling, and employment is shrinking. This mirrors a broader trend across Asia, with PMIs contracting in Taiwan, Korea, and Malaysia.

However, Indonesia and Vietnam offer a contrasting narrative, with positive PMI readings. Vietnam, in particular, is experiencing a sharp upturn, hitting a 15-month high. China’s factory sector remains in expansionary territory, but export orders are weakening, indicating a reliance on domestic demand.

Did you know? Vietnam’s strong manufacturing performance is attracting significant foreign investment, positioning it as a key player in global supply chains.

Equity Markets & Commodity Price Movements

The NZX50 has shown resilience, recovering from a morning dip to close slightly positive. However, market heavyweight F&P Healthcare is underperforming, while Kathmandu, Mainfreight, and Vulcan Steel are leading gains. The ASX200 is down slightly, reflecting broader global economic uncertainties.

Oil prices remain relatively stable, while gold has softened. The Kiwi dollar is holding steady, but under minor pressure against major currencies. Bitcoin continues to exhibit low volatility.

Swap Rates & Bond Yields: A Tightening Environment

Wholesale swap rates are firming, and bond yields are rising across the board. The Australian 10-year bond yield has increased by 3 basis points, while the NZ Government 10-year rate is up 4 basis points. This suggests a tightening financial environment and potentially higher borrowing costs in the future.

Navigating the Uncertainty: What Businesses Should Do

The current economic landscape demands a proactive and adaptable approach. Businesses should focus on:

  • Strengthening Balance Sheets: Reducing reliance on short-term debt and building cash reserves.
  • Diversifying Supply Chains: Mitigating risks associated with global economic disruptions.
  • Investing in Innovation: Improving productivity and competitiveness.
  • Monitoring Key Indicators: Staying informed about inflation, interest rates, and global economic trends.

See our guide on risk management strategies for businesses for more detailed advice.

“The combination of short-term funding pressures, rising inflation, and global economic headwinds creates a challenging environment for businesses. Adaptability and a focus on long-term sustainability are crucial for navigating these uncertainties.” – Dr. Eleanor Vance, Senior Economist at Archyde Research.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What does the increase in building consents mean for homeowners?

A: It suggests a potential easing of housing supply constraints, which could moderate price growth in the medium term. However, the impact will vary depending on location and property type.

Q: Should businesses be concerned about the rising swap rates?

A: Yes, rising swap rates typically translate to higher borrowing costs for businesses, potentially impacting investment and expansion plans.

Q: What is the outlook for the Australian economy?

A: The Australian economy faces a complex set of challenges, including rising inflation, a slowing manufacturing sector, and global economic headwinds. The RBA’s monetary policy decisions will be crucial in determining the economic trajectory.

Q: How can I stay informed about these economic trends?

A: Subscribe to the Archyde.com newsletter and follow our coverage of economic news and analysis.

The economic landscape is in flux. Staying informed, adapting to changing conditions, and prioritizing long-term sustainability will be key to success in the months ahead. What are your predictions for the New Zealand and Australian economies? Share your thoughts in the comments below!



See our article on understanding inflation and its impact on your finances for a deeper dive.


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