Understanding Mental Health Support in Finland (2025): A Comprehensive Guide
Finland, one of the world’s happiest and most peaceful nations, is not immune to the growing challenges of mental health. In 2025, Finland continues to invest heavily in mental wellness for both its citizens and foreign residents. Whether you are a Finnish national, a student, or an international worker, understanding the local mental health system can empower you to seek help when needed.
In this guide, we explore the landscape of mental health services in Finland — from national helplines to free therapy options and unique cultural approaches to mental wellbeing.
Mental Health in Finland: A Growing Focus
Despite ranking high in happiness indexes, Finland experiences increasing rates of mental distress, especially among youth and working adults. According to the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), anxiety and depression are now the leading causes of disability in the country.
To address these issues, Finland offers a comprehensive public mental health system backed by both local municipalities and national programs. Services are provided in Finnish, Swedish, and English, ensuring accessibility for expats and residents alike.
Key Mental Health Services in Finland
1. Municipal Health Services (Public Healthcare System)
All legal residents of Finland have access to municipal healthcare through the public system (Kela). These services include:
- General Practitioner (GP) consultations
- Referrals to psychiatrists or psychologists
- Crisis intervention and therapy sessions
- Long-term psychiatric care
➡️ Visit Kela.fi to learn more about eligibility and coverage.
2. Nyyti Ry – Support for Students
Nyyti ry is a Finnish nonprofit organization that focuses on mental wellbeing for students in higher education. Services include:
- Free peer support chats
- Webinars and articles on mental health
- Campaigns promoting mental wellbeing in academic environments
➡️ Access Nyyti’s resources: https://www.nyyti.fi/en/
3. Mieli Mental Health Finland – National Helpline & Programs
Mieli is Finland’s largest mental health organization, offering a variety of services in multiple languages.
Crisis Helpline Numbers (available 24/7):
- In English: +358 9 2525 0116 (Daily, 2 PM–10 PM)
- In Finnish: 09 2525 0111
- In Swedish: 09 2525 0112
Their services include:
- Immediate crisis support
- Trauma counseling
- Suicide prevention
- Group therapy and workshops
➡️ Official website: https://mieli.fi/en/
Specialized Mental Health Helplines in Finland (2025)
📞 MIELI’s Crisis Helpline in English
For expats, tourists, and immigrants seeking immediate mental health assistance, Mieli’s English-language crisis line is a vital resource.
- Phone: +358 9 2525 0116
- Hours: 2 PM to 10 PM daily
- Website: https://mieli.fi/en/crisis-help
📞 Sekasin Chat – Youth Mental Health Support
Targeted towards youth (ages 12 to 29), Sekasin Chat offers real-time support in Finnish and Swedish.
- Website Chat: https://sekasin.fi/
- Operating Hours: Daily (varies by staffing)
📞 Mental Health Support for Foreign Nationals
While most services are offered in Finnish and Swedish, English-speaking foreigners can access:
- Crisis Helpline (English): +358 9 2525 0116
- EU Health Insurance Card (EHIC) services via Kela
- Private therapy through international clinics in Helsinki
➡️ Find international clinics at :
Government Mental Health Policies in 2025
The Finnish government follows a decentralized model where municipalities manage primary mental health care. However, the state plays an essential role through:
- Mental Health Strategy 2020–2030 (Ongoing implementation)
- Free therapy initiatives for low-income individuals
- School-based mental health awareness programs
According to the Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, Finland emphasizes early intervention and community-based mental wellness.
➡️ Official health policy site: https://stm.fi/en/frontpage
Private Mental Health Clinics in Finland
If you prefer faster access or specialized care, private mental health clinics are available across Finland, particularly in:
- Helsinki
- Espoo
- Tampere
- Turku
- Oulu
Private sessions range from €80 to €120 but may be reimbursed partly by Kela if referred through a public doctor.
➡️ Example: Mehiläinen Medical Center
Mental Health Apps Popular in Finland
Finland embraces digital tools for mental wellness. Popular mental health apps in 2025 include:
- Oiva App – Mindfulness and ACT-based exercises
- Therapify – Online therapy booking
- Minduu – Finnish therapy search engine
- Mentalhub.fi – Free self-help tools funded by public health authorities
➡️ Try Oiva: https://www.oivamieli.fi
Mental Health for Expats and Non-Finnish Speakers
Expats may face unique challenges in adapting to Finland’s long winters and cultural differences. The good news: many helplines now offer English support, and private clinics in larger cities usually accommodate international clients.
You can also join mental health communities such as:
- Expat Finland Forum
- Facebook Groups on Mental Health in Finland
- Local NGOs offering English-language services
Final Thoughts
Mental health care in Finland is well-structured, empathetic, and increasingly accessible in English. From 24/7 crisis lines to free student support and culturally-sensitive digital tools, the country continues to evolve in promoting mental wellbeing.
If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to contact the available helplines or seek support through your local health center. Remember: you are not alone.
Need More Help? Explore These Resources:
Mentalhub.fi (self help programs)
MIELI Mental Health Finland
THL – Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare
Kela Mental Health Services
