Sweden sees decline in mental health-related sick leave

New statistics indicate that the proportion of sick leave due to mental health issues in Sweden has decreased for the first time in a long period. According to an analysis by Skandia, based on data from Försäkringskassan and SCB, the share of sick leave attributed to mental health fell from 48 percent in the first quarter of 2025 to 45 percent a year later.

While the influx of new cases is declining, Magnus Elfdahl, business manager for risk and health at Skandia, notes that long-term sick leave lasting more than two years is still increasing. One potential reason for the decrease in new cases may be the planned removal of the exhaustion syndrome diagnosis by 2028.

Data shows that women in welfare professions continue to be disproportionately affected by mental health-related sick leave. Interestingly, among new cases in 2025, managers had the highest proportional share, though their total numbers remain low compared to other groups. Elfdahl suggests that improved preventive work by employers and earlier treatment may be contributing to the downward trend.