Kela reports €1.7 billion benefits distributed for mental health disorders in Finland

Last year, Kela distributed over €1.7 billion in benefits related to mental health disorders, behavioral issues, and neurodevelopmental conditions. The expenses for these benefits have surged by more than €700 million since 2010. Nearly one million recipients received support based on these criteria in the previous year. In total, Kela disbursed €16.6 billion in benefits overall.

More than 10% of all Kela’s benefits, and half of those based on health criteria, stemmed from mental health and behavioral issues or neurodevelopmental disorders. This significant portion underscores the challenge, as noted by Kela’s chief physician, Riitta Luoto.

The demand for support is particularly pronounced among younger individuals. The costs associated with mental health and behavioral disorders, as well as neurodevelopmental conditions, have risen sharply in younger age groups. For those under 16 years old, adjusted for inflation, expenses have more than tripled from 2010 to last year. Among those aged 16 to 34, costs have more than doubled.

Common diagnoses for children and adolescents include various neurodevelopmental disorders such as ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, and developmental language disorders, which are reflected in the increased use of related therapies, explained Kela’s specialist researcher, Miika Vuori.

However, the benefits provided by Kela represent only a portion of the total costs associated with mental health and behavioral disorders and neurodevelopmental conditions. A significant amount of treatment occurs within occupational health services, and pension funds cover disability benefits. Additionally, the economic costs of lost productivity due to these issues are estimated to be in the billions. According to Kela’s research director, Antti Veilahti, supporting young individuals facing these challenges effectively could yield substantial returns for society.