For non-emergency mental-health problems, the huisarts is usually the first point of contact. The GP can offer support directly, involve the practice mental-health professional (POH-GGZ), or refer you to covered GGZ care when indicated.

The usual route

  1. Contact your huisarts.
  2. Discuss symptoms, urgency and their effect on daily life.
  3. You may receive support in the GP practice, often through POH-GGZ.
  4. If more specialised treatment is indicated, the GP can refer you to GGZ.
  5. Check provider contracts and waiting times before treatment starts.

Costs

Covered adult GGZ is in the basic package and generally counts toward the eigen risico. GP/POH-GGZ care itself does not consume the eigen risico. From 2026, the exploratory verkennend gesprek in GGZ no longer consumes the eigen risico.

Waiting times and your insurer’s duty

Rijksoverheid states that ambulatory GGZ providers publish waiting times. If you wait longer than the applicable norms, ask your insurer for wachtlijstbemiddeling. The insurer has a care duty and should look for an appropriate alternative where possible.

Crisis

For immediate danger or a life-threatening emergency call 112. For urgent mental-health problems that cannot wait outside GP hours, contact the huisartsen-spoedpost. Do not wait for a normal appointment if there is acute risk.