Self-harm related contacts rise among Finnish child and youth support services

The Mannerheim League for Child Welfare (MLL) reported a sharp increase in contacts related to self-harm among Finland’s child and youth support services last year, with over 24,000 total inquiries received.

According to the organisation, many children and young people described self-harming, such as cutting, as their only way to cope with emotional distress. This trend has persisted for several years, the MLL stated.

Reports of domestic violence and sexual harassment also rose, alongside ongoing concerns about peer relationships and bullying. Bullying incidents increasingly involved mockery based on appearance, disabilities, obesity, and racist abuse.

The MLL’s support services for children and youth received more than 24,000 contacts in 2023.