Danderyd Municipality in Sweden will spend 11 million kronor ($1 million) to address youth mental health issues. The funding targets rising psychological distress among young people, particularly teenage girls.
Municipal Councilor Johanna Hornberger announced the initiative. She said the municipality is taking comprehensive action against mental health problems.
"We see how mental illness affects more people at an increasingly rapid pace, especially young girls," Hornberger said in a statement. "Now we are taking a comprehensive municipal effort against this. This is an investment in our children and young people's future."
The exact implementation plan remains unclear. Education, social services, and cultural committees must develop specific activities and measure their effects.
Meanwhile, the municipality proposed 25 million kronor for expanding Enebyberg School. The education committee later suggested withdrawing this assignment, leaving the school expansion uncertain.
Another 15 million kronor will go into a financial buffer fund. Officials have not specified how this reserve money will be used.
The mental health funding comes as Swedish communities nationwide grapple with rising youth psychological distress. Municipalities face pressure to address these issues with limited resources.
Danderyd's approach shows recognition of the problem but lacks concrete details. The success will depend on how effectively committees translate funding into practical support for young residents.