Estonia Launches Stepped-Care System for Early Mental Health Support

The Ministry of Social Affairs is expanding early mental health support services. A new stepped-care system aims to provide timely help to over 1,000 people each year. The initiative seeks to improve access and prevent delayed treatment for mental health issues. The system offers four levels of support. The first provides self-help tools like books and online materials. The second includes low-intensity psychological support delivered outside specialist settings.

The third level introduces psychotherapy, with family doctors and psychotherapists working together. The highest tier offers psychiatric care for more complex needs.

Minister Karmen Joller plans to streamline these services through a single digital platform. An additional €277,000 in funding will support the expansion of these programmes. The new scheme will allow more people to access mental healthcare at an earlier stage. With centralised resources and increased funding, the system is designed to reduce late intervention. Over 1,000 individuals are expected to benefit annually from these changes.