mielenterveyskuntoutujien

Mielenterveyskuntoutujien is a Finnish term formed from mielenterveys (mental health) and kuntoutuja (rehabilitee), typically used in the genitive plural to mean “of mental health rehabilitees” or appearing in compounds such as mielenterveyskuntoutujien palvelut (services for people in mental health rehabilitation). It refers to people who are receiving or eligible for rehabilitation aimed at restoring or improving functioning, coping skills and social participation after or during mental health problems.

In Finland, mental health rehabilitation (mielenterveyskuntoutus) covers a range of psychosocial, vocational and clinical interventions. Common elements include psychotherapy, occupational rehabilitation, supported employment, housing services, peer support and community-based day activities. Services are provided by municipal health and social services, specialized psychiatric care, national institutions such as Kela (the Social Insurance Institution) which funds vocational rehabilitation, and third-sector organizations like Mieli (the Finnish Association for Mental Health).

The purpose of rehabilitation is to promote recovery, autonomy, quality of life and inclusion in education, work and community life. Legal and administrative frameworks set eligibility criteria, and individualized rehabilitation plans guide interventions. Challenges for mielenterveyskuntoutujien include stigma, gaps between services, and the need for long-term, coordinated support. Peer-led initiatives and integrated care models are emphasized in policy and practice to enhance outcomes and participation. The term is used in professional, administrative and advocacy contexts when discussing needs, rights and services related to mental health rehabilitation.