A three-year pilot program in Norrbotten, Sweden, using cultural activities as mental health treatment has shown promising results and is now set for expansion across the entire county. According to reports from local newspapers Norrländska Socialdemokraten and Piteå-Tidningen, the 'Culture on Prescription' program tested in Luleå and Boden has reportedly reduced anxiety, depression, and loneliness among participants.
Linda Risnert, one of the program participants, described the experience, stating that people with mental health issues or long-term sick leave often become isolated. "You're quite blind too if you have mental illness or are on long-term sick leave because you're so trapped in yourself," Risnert said. She acknowledged that attending the meetings was initially difficult due to fear of judgment, but found comfort in being with others in similar situations.
You're quite blind too if you have mental illness or are on long-term sick leave because you're so trapped in yourself
The program evaluation indicates that over 90 percent of participants would recommend the treatment to others. Based on these positive outcomes, Region Norrbotten plans to roll out the 'Culture on Prescription' model throughout the entire county, expanding access to this alternative mental health approach that combines social interaction with cultural activities.