Great demand for psychological treatment

One year has passed since a pilot system offering free-of-charge psychological treatment for 15-35-year-olds was introduced.

Individuals aged between 15-35 who experience anxiety and mild-to-moderate depression can register with the system after being referred by a GP.

According to the latest figures, 300 people have sought treatment through this system, and 50 have completed their treatment.

Some psychologists participating in this system have long waiting lists.

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“It is of course important to offer prompt treatment to those who need it, which is why we should look at how we can shorten these waiting lists,” says project leader Suni Poulsen.

”But we also need to look at why the number of people seeking such treatment continues to grow.”

He believes this fast-increasing demand for psychological treatment is a clear indication of a general decline in our mental health.

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“Our lifestyle is moving in an unhealthy direction: we don’t spend enough time outside. We use lots of new technology and engage with digital media, and many of us experience stress in the workplace.”

These are just some of the structures in our modern society that contribute to our deteriorating mental health.

“It may sound drastic, but I believe that some regulatory limitations ought to be imposed on social media use, and I also think we should look at shortening the work week,” he says.

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“And if we really want to improve the public mental health, we need to start teaching our children the benefits of playing outside as opposed to being stuck behind screens for hours every day.”

Poulsen adds that the pilot project is an important step toward improving public mental health, but if preventative measures are not taken, the waiting lists for psychological treatment will most likely continue to grow.

Read the Faroese version of this article here.

Translated by prosa.fo.

More Faroese News in English.