Students in Finland on autumn break amid rising mental health concerns

Students across Finland are on autumn break for the next two weeks. Concerns about the well-being of students have been mounting for some time. According to a youth barometer published last spring, the life satisfaction of young people has slightly declined compared to pre-pandemic years. A recent high school student barometer reveals that 59% of high schoolers find their studies mentally overwhelming, down from 63% two years ago.

Frans Horneman, chief psychologist at the Finnish Mental Health Association, emphasizes the crucial role of breaks for today’s students. “We unfortunately have a lot of data showing that school burnout and anxiety have increased among young people,” he states. While recovery during breaks is important, it is not enough on its own; students should also find ways to recuperate in their daily lives.

Surveys indicate anxiety levels are particularly high among girls, though no conclusive reasons have been identified. Horneman suggests that girls may be more attuned to their symptoms than boys. Overall, the academic landscape has become more demanding, with a faster pace and quicker decisions required about future studies.

August Kiattrakoolchai, chair of the Student Union, fears a divide forming within the student population between those who thrive and those who struggle. Anna-Maija Tiilikainen, principal of Kuopio Classical High School, notes the necessity of the autumn break, comparing the school year to a 100-meter sprint with no soft landing periods.

Students from minority backgrounds or with health issues report a greater need for support, alongside children of uneducated or unemployed parents. Favour Igoche, a nursing student from Nigeria, plans to use her autumn break to rest, mentioning the challenges of adapting to a new culture and language while stressing the need to prioritize self-care.