Information About the Campaign

Background

Students’ Mental Health Week is a nationwide campaign aimed at sparking discussion around important and timely themes related to student mental health. The campaign also highlights actions and practices that can promote mental well-being within student communities.
The campaign is grounded in the idea that mental health is a resource and a cornerstone of our overall well-being — something worth holding on to. Mental well-being can be maintained and strengthened through even the smallest of actions. These are the kinds of actions we want to bring to light during Students’ Mental Health Week, while also reminding everyone that students’ mental health matters. The campaign also seeks to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health issues through an annually changing theme.

The Theme of the 2026 Campaign is belief in the future

The crises of recent years have left a mark on how young people and students perceive the future. Climate change, international conflicts, economic uncertainty, and mental health challenges have shaken confidence in what lies ahead.
According to the Nuorisobarometri, young people’s belief in the future is declining: only about 60% of young people now view their future optimistically, whereas in previous years the figure was significantly higher. There is growing skepticism especially toward societal and global developments.
At the same time, student mental health is in a worrying state. As many as one-third of higher education students experience significant psychological distress. Loneliness, financial insecurity, and constant performance pressure undermine well-being and belief in one’s own potential.
Yet hope persists. Several studies show that young people remain surprisingly hopeful about their personal future. They believe they can influence their lives and find their place in working life. Entrepreneurship, advocacy, and exploring new career paths are increasingly appealing.
However, strengthening belief in the future requires concrete action. We need mental health support, safe communities, opportunities to make a difference — and above all, a message that young people’s perspectives and experiences matter. That’s why this year’s theme for Students’ Mental Health Week is belief in the future.

Hope doesn’t arise out of nowhere — it is built together.

#OMTV2026