In Finland over the past decade the occurrence of mental disorders has increased markedly. This can be attributed mainly to the rising prevalence of depression which has taken place despite the concurrent availability of new forms of treatment. Burnout and other severe mental health problems are common in the Finnish workforce. Time pressure, a hectic atmosphere in the workplace, and job insecurity have come to characterize the Finnish labour market following the economic recession of the early 1990s and have affected employees' wellbeing. The increased occurrence of mental health problems is reflected in disability pension and absenteeism statistics: mental health problems are the most common reason for disability pensions and sick leaves.
Finland has begun to respond actively to the obvious need to address mental health issues. Most Finnish employers are making efforts to maintain their employee's work ability, of which mental health is an important but often insufficiently acknowledged element. Government agencies, workers' and employers' organisations and many non-governmental organisations have been developing programmes and campaigns designed to raise awareness of issues such as work ability, burnout, stress, and suicide. The social and political climate in Finland is conducive to mental health promotion and prevention programmes, especially in the workplace. Recent reforms in occupational health care and rehabilitation legislation, the country's extensive occupational health care system, the high rate of unionisation, and the harmonious relationships between the various stakeholders in the labour market are all in place to foster social dialogue and action. Finland has been successful at advocating mental health promotion at the international level, particularly within the European Union.
However, there are still steps to be taken to address the issue of mental health more efficiently and to respond to the growing needs of the population. The rehabilitation system for people with mental health problems, in particular for people with depressive disorders, needs to be further developed. Rehabilitation and prevention of mental health problems could be tied more closely to activities in the workplace which maintain work ability. This would increase the flexibility of rehabilitation services and make them a natural part of the work culture. It would most likely reduce the stigma often attached to the use of specialised mental health services and help employees with mental health problems to more easily maintain their employment status.
Good mental health is an essential part of an employee's work ability. This makes it of concern not only to employees themselves but to employers and governments as well. In Finland the framework for promoting mental wellbeing and the interest in doing so already exist, now it is time to reinforce the commitment.
