ZonMw Approves Six Projects to Innovate Mental Health Care in the Netherlands
Utrecht, Tuesday, 14 October 2025.
ZonMw has greenlit six initiatives to enhance mental health care, focusing on digital innovation and experiential knowledge to improve patient outcomes.
Digital Innovation in Mental Health Care
The Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development (ZonMw) has approved funding for six new projects designed to enhance mental health care through digital innovation and experiential knowledge. These initiatives are part of the Mental Healthcare Quality Funds program, which aims to improve collaboration, incorporate expertise by experience, and expand digital and hybrid care solutions [1][2].
Focus on Hybrid Care and Regional Networks
Among the six projects is the ‘Working Together on Digital and Hybrid Care in Social Mental Healthcare,’ which targets strengthening digital care practices and developing a manual for hybrid working. Another significant project is ‘National Implementation of Mental Health Networks,’ which seeks to establish regional networks to ensure prompt and appropriate support for mental health issues [1][2]. These projects reflect a growing trend in mental healthcare to leverage digital tools for more integrated and accessible services.
Enhancing Care for Youth and Gender Identity
The project ‘Appropriate Care for Children and Young People with Questions about Gender Identity’ focuses on improving guidance by general practitioners for young individuals exploring gender identity. This initiative is crucial in promoting knowledge and skills necessary for better support and collaboration between healthcare providers and families [1][2].
Benefits and Implementation
These projects collectively aim to address the pressing needs within the mental health sector by implementing evidence-based practices and advanced technologies. The anticipated outcomes include not only improved patient care and outcomes but also enhanced accessibility and efficiency across the mental healthcare system in the Netherlands. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, these initiatives are set to contribute significantly to the evolution of mental health services [1][2].