What Is Mental Health?

Mental health is a fundamental part of our overall well-being and a vital support throughout life — from childhood to old age. Yet it’s a concept that is often misunderstood or reduced to simply meaning mental illness. But being mentally healthy doesn’t just mean not being ill.

More Than the Absence of Illness

Mental health is not the same as simply not being ill. It is an active state in which we have the strength to make decisions, manage emotions, build relationships, and find meaning in life.

Illustration av en person som sitter i meditationsställning framför ett grönt huvud fyllt med växter och blommor – en symbol för psykisk hälsa, inre balans och personlig utveckling.

What Affects Our Mental Health?

Biological

Genetic predisposition and brain chemistry

Life Events

Trauma, upbringing, stress

Lifestyle Habits

Sleep, exercise, alcohol

Relationships

Sense of belonging, support, social connection

Society

Economy, discrimination, work environment

“Mental health is a state in which an individual realises their own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively, and is able to contribute to their community.”

– WHO, 2022

Illustration av ett huvud med gröna pusselbitar i hjärnan, där en person placerar den sista biten – symboliserar förståelse, mental hälsa och återhämtning.

Why Is Mental Health Important?

When we feel mentally well, it affects how we learn, work, relate to others — and how we cope with life’s challenges.

  • Better conditions for learning in school
  • Stronger performance at work
  • Healthier relationships
  • Lower risk of physical illness
  • Reduced societal costs (SEK 135 billion/year in Sweden)

Sources: WHO (2022). Mental health: strengthening our response | Folkhälsomyndigheten. Vad är psykisk hälsa?

How We Can Strengthen Mental Health Together

Creating lasting change requires both societal efforts and personal commitment.

As a Fellow Human Being

Listen, ask, and show that you care. Be present and make it clear that it’s okay to talk about how you’re feeling.

As an Employer

Foster safe, open workplaces where mental health is taken seriously — not silenced.

Through the Green Ribbon Campaign

Visa ert stöd, bär det gröna bandet och engagera er som partner – tillsammans bryter vi stigmat.

Partner with us

We offer several opportunities for organisations to become part of Green Ribbon Sweden and contribute to better mental health.

As a partner, you help us raise awareness and support people across the country — while also aligning your brand with a vital social cause.

Get in Touch!

We look forward to hearing from you and are happy to help with any questions or thoughts you may have.

You can reach us by phone or by filling out the contact form below — we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

+46 707-165 765

Don’t hesitate to contact us — we’re here for you!