Mental health and economic security concerns raised in Sweden

In Blekinge, Sweden, organizations including NSPH, RSMH, and Mind are calling for political reforms to address the link between economic insecurity and mental health. Data from Försäkringskassan indicates that nearly 4,300 people in the county receive sickness or activity compensation, a rate approximately 25% higher than the national average. Mental health diagnoses are cited as the most common cause for sick leave.

Reports from RSMH suggest that nearly half of its members have struggled to afford food, while Mind notes that financial difficulties are raised in one out of every four calls to its suicide prevention helpline. Advocates argue that the erosion of sickness and activity benefits has weakened the social safety net, exacerbating poverty and suicide risks.

Separately, the Skåne Mental Health Week will take place from October 5–11. In Trelleborg, various activities are scheduled to increase awareness, reduce stigma, and provide information on available support services. Events include lectures on suicide prevention and personal experiences with Tourette syndrome and recovery.