Recommendations for strengthening competence in mental health, substance use and addictions in Finland

Background

Mental health issues, use of substances and tobacco and nicotine products as well as gambling can cause wide-ranging harm not only to people themselves but also to their families, communities and society at large. These phenomena and the related harm are reflected in many ways in working life, especially in fields where people meet and interact closely with each other. The need for competence related to these phenomena has been widely recognised in Finnish society. For example, it has been emphasized in national strategies and guidance that problems related to these phenomena ought to be identified at early stage and access to services ought to be eased. However, e.g. stigma still causes barriers for reaching this goal. 

Ministry of Social Affairs and Health appointed the division to give a proposal for strengthening the competence related to substance use, addiction and mental health in different occupational groups. Special attention was given to professions that involve close interaction with other people.

Methods

For the purpose of creating a common understanding of the situation in the education of future professionals working in the field, a study was conducted to examine the visibility of mental health, substance use and addiction contents in the vocational upper secondary qualifications and the curricula for education provided by universities and universities of applied sciences in Finland. Materials available online in 2021-2022/2023 were analysed. The focus of the study was on education of certain fields, such as social services and health care, education and guidance and police and rescue services. 

Results

Based on the study, major differences were identified between and within qualifications when it comes to including mental health, substance use and addiction contents in qualification units and curricula. Before-mentioned contents were not systematically included in the mandatory contents of qualifications and degrees in all key sectors. Also, on the grounds of the study, it was recognized that in certain sectors there is a clear need for strengthening the visibility of these contents.

Conclusions

The results of the study were taken into account in formulating the minimum contents of competence related to mental health, substance use and addiction in respect of education and training programmes leading to a qualification or degree. The ministerial division recommended that the minimum contents ought to be acknowledged when planning and implementing compulsory studies at all levels of education and training (initial vocational qualifications, university of applied sciences degrees and university degrees). In addition to the competence objectives, the minimum contents provide examples of contents and practical tips for teaching. Also, recommendations to strengthen the competence in continuing education, the competence management and the quality of teaching, education and training were made.