Top 10 Countries Most Concerned About The Mental Health Of Their Populations

Mental health is an integral part of our health, which affects psychological well-being. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines it as: “a state of well-being in which a person is able to recognize their own strengths, cope with normal health pressures, work hard and contribute to society”† So it goes far beyond the subject of mental disorders or disabilities. As the EStates implement public health policies, which countries value this dimension the most and care about the mental health of their citizens? According to an OECD ranking, the Scandinavian countries are in good position, followed by Germany and… France, which are doing well.

William Russel, an international health insurance specialist, ranked the 26 OECD countries by taking into account several factors related to the promotion of psychological well-being. These criteria include the balance between private and professional life, the environment, the place of greenery or public expenditure on mental health care.“Each country was given a score out of ten for each factor before taking the average of all factors for a final score out of ten”explains William Russell.

With a score of 7.13, Sweden leads the ranking, ahead of Germany with 6.60 and Finland with 6.47. France achieves a score of 6.40. With 3.30, 2.07 and 1.60, Poland, Chile and Iceland come in last place.

Thus, the top 10 OECD countries most concerned about mental health are composed of:

  • Sweden (7.13/10)
  • Germany (6.60/10)
  • Finland (6.47/10)
  • France (6.40/10)
  • Netherlands (6.27/10)
  • Italy (6.07/10)
  • Canada (5.80/10)
  • Norway (5.73/10)
  • Slovenia (5.53/10)
  • Australia (5.4/10)

In Sweden, an environment conducive to well-being

Sweden is in first place, mainly thanks to its green spaces. The country “home to lush coniferous forests that cover most of the country and provide the perfect environment for relaxation and mental wellbeing”, say the specialists. Moreover, Swedes enjoy a good work-life balance. A criterion that also puts Germany in second place. The country also spends more than 11% of its health budget on the psychological well-being of its citizens. Known as the happiest country in the world, Finland stands out for its environmental factors, especially the high percentage of green spaces (73% of its territory).

For its part, France is the leader in public spending on mental health, which in total represents 15% of its health budget. France ranks second in the number of hours spent on leisure and well-being, totaling 16.4 per day. It owes this place to the 35-hour work week, as well as the right to disconnect, “a law that requires large companies not to send or receive e-mail after working hours”explains the research.

(ETX Daily Up)

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