According to several reports and studies, mental ill-health is on the rise in society, affecting more people every year. This year, due to social distancing, it may be more important than ever to observe World Mental Health Day. Anyone can be affected, and there are many different reasons why someone might struggle. The consequences of mental ill-health are serious and are increasingly affecting younger age groups.
The prevalence of mental ill-health among college and university students in Sweden is notably high, with many experiencing depression, anxiety, and stress on an almost daily basis. To prevent this, identifying modifiable risk factors is of great importance. Together with several other universities and colleges across Sweden, the School of Naprapathy is contributing to the development of knowledge in this field by participating in the SUN (Sustainable University Life) project. The study is being conducted at Sophiahemmet University in collaboration with the Karolinska Institute, led by Professor Eva Skillgate and Associate Professor and licensed psychologist Klara Edlund. As the world's largest study on mental ill-health among students, its purpose is to map the protective and risk factors associated with the development of mental ill-health and pain.
Research has already shown that mental ill-health is often linked to several modifiable lifestyle factors, such as low or extreme physical activity, pain, sleep, and body dissatisfaction. Naprapaths, who work specifically with treating patients suffering from various types of lifestyle-related ailments, frequently encounter these issues. By gaining deeper knowledge of mental ill-health, the naprapathic profession can help steer societal trends in the right direction!

Helène Schulte, Licensed Physician, PhD
President, School of Naprapathy