Calls Grow for Mental Health Inclusion in Sweden’s Wellness Allowance as Women’s Health Initiatives Expand

Sweden is witnessing growing advocacy and political efforts to modernize health support systems, focusing both on mental health access and women's health services. Central to the discussion is the country's wellness allowance, known as Friskvårdsbidrag, which many experts argue is outdated and insufficient for today's health challenges.

Åsa Severgårdh, CEO of Epassi, highlights that while January sees many Swedes engaging in new fitness goals, the Friskvårdsbidrag has not evolved in seven years despite rising costs for health services. It remains focused primarily on physical activities, overlooking mental health needs. This is particularly troubling as approximately 630,000 Swedes are currently on sick leave, nearly half due to mental health issues, costing society nearly 46 billion kronor in long-term absences each year. Research cited suggests that investing in mental health prevention could yield a four to sixfold economic return, emphasizing the urgent need to integrate therapy and psychological support into the allowance.

Parallel to these calls for reform, substantial political work is underway to strengthen women’s health across different life stages, particularly in the Västmanland region. Kristdemokraterna (KD) stresses the importance of dignity in healthcare and claims that previous misallocation of funds under Socialdemokraterna’s leadership has been rectified. Under current leadership, funds are properly channeled into services such as home birth support, mental health assistance during pregnancy, and menopause education.

The region has also reduced waiting times for prolapse surgeries from 68 patients in December 2024 to 49 by January 2026, reflecting improved capacity. Given that Västmanland is a major employer with many female workers, these initiatives are seen as vital to enhancing workplace well-being and reducing sick leave.

Overall, there is a consensus that both mental health support within workplace wellness programs and comprehensive women’s health services are pivotal to Sweden’s broader health strategy. These efforts represent a commitment to recognizing mental and physical health as interconnected domains needing equal attention and resources.

"Friskvårdsbidrag is not just a perk but an effective health tool," Severgårdh emphasizes, urging the allowance to evolve to meet modern demands. Meanwhile, KD’s spokesperson insists that the current initiatives show real progress and dedication to women’s health, countering any perceptions of inaction.