Depression
depressiomasennustila
Mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and lack of energy.
Depression is one of the most common mental health disorders. According to the Finnish Current Care (Käypä hoito) guideline on depression (updated 25 June 2026), about 5–7% of Finns have depression in a given year.
Symptoms of depression
- Persistent sadness or feeling of emptiness
- Loss of interest in things you used to enjoy
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Sleep disturbances (excessive sleep or insomnia)
- Changes in appetite
- Difficulty concentrating
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Thoughts related to death or suicide
When to seek help?
Seek help if symptoms last more than two weeks and make daily life difficult. A symptom list is not a diagnosis: only a professional can assess whether it is depression.
If you are in immediate danger or have thoughts of suicide, call 112. For crisis support, call the MIELI Crisis Helpline on 09 2525 0111 (in Finnish, 24/7). More help: crisis help.
Treatment
- Psychotherapy (especially CBT)
- Medication
- Lifestyle changes
- Peer support