Swedish Regions and Municipalities Launch Robust Mental Health Initiatives in 2025
In 2025, Swedish regions like Kronoberg and municipalities such as Burlöv have launched targeted mental health initiatives, including scholarships for supportive organizations and school-based programs to enhance well-being from early childhood to adolescence.
- • Fontänhuset Älmhult and Äldrekontakt received Kronoberg's public health scholarship of 20,000 kronor each for combating loneliness and promoting mental health.
- • Äldrekontakt arranges social gatherings for lonely elderly; Fontänhuset Älmhult offers a supportive environment for people with mental health issues.
- • Burlöv schools are introducing 'Livsviktiga snack i skolan' teaching material for younger students to discuss emotions and norms.
- • The internationally recognized YAM program will be implemented in Burlöv for older students in the 2025/2026 school year to reduce depression and suicidal thoughts.
Key details
In 2025, several Swedish regions and municipalities have intensified efforts to enhance mental health through targeted initiatives and programs. In Region Kronoberg, Fontänhuset Älmhult and Äldrekontakt were honored with the Region Kronoberg's public health scholarship, each receiving 20,000 kronor for their impactful work combating involuntary loneliness and promoting mental well-being. Fontänhuset Älmhult offers a supportive space for individuals struggling with mental health issues, encouraging social participation and rebuilding self-esteem. Äldrekontakt facilitates social meet-ups for lonely elderly individuals, fostering important social connections crucial for their health. Suzanne Frank (M), first vice chairman of the public health and care committee, highlighted the importance of these initiatives in strengthening mental health in the region and promoting social bonds.
Meanwhile, Burlöv municipality has launched comprehensive mental health programs within schools to support students from early years through adolescence. For younger students, Burlöv is testing the "Livsviktiga snack i skolan" program, developed by Suicide Zero, which includes lesson plans about emotions, body awareness, mental processes, and social norms. This approach is backed by research showing that early discussion of feelings serves as a protective factor against future mental health issues. For older students in the eighth grade and in the IM high school unit, the "Youth Aware of Mental Health" (YAM) program will be implemented during the 2025/2026 school year. YAM is internationally recognized for effectively reducing depression and suicidal thoughts in teenagers. Helena Collijn, head of central student health services in Burlöv, emphasized, "We want all students to feel they know where to seek help when life feels difficult and that it’s okay to talk about how they feel."
Together, these initiatives signify a proactive regional and municipal response to mental health challenges, focusing on prevention, support, and awareness through community engagement and education.