The challenge
In Sweden, an estimated 800,000 to 1 million adults suffer from mental ill-health, placing an immense burden on individuals, families, and society. The economic cost is staggering—approximately 70 billion SEK annually. Despite growing need, the public mental health system is struggling to keep pace, resulting in long delays and limited accessibility.
As of June 2023, more than half of adolescents and young adults seeking their first mental health appointment had waited over 30 days. One in five had waited more than 90 days. At the same time, private therapy remains out of reach for many, creating a significant gap in access to care.
Turning challenge into opportunity
1825 Therapy Center exists to meet this urgent need with a model built for young adults, with young adults. Focusing on those aged 18 to 25, 1825 offers cost-efficient, high-quality therapy without the need for a referral (“remiss”)—a major barrier in the public system.
At 1825, young adults are not placed on time-limited treatment plans. Instead, they are welcomed to remain in therapy for as long as they need, recognizing that emotional development and healing unfold differently for each person, especially during the critical transition to adulthood.
What sets 1825 apart is its model: designed specifically around the needs, realities, and rhythms of young adulthood. By offering affordable therapy, lowering bureaucratic hurdles, and building continuity of care, 1825 is reshaping what mental health support can look like for this age group.
In parallel, 1825 works to amplify awareness of young adults’ unique needs in the mental health system—advocating for their inclusion in both policy and practice, and ensuring that this life stage is no longer overlooked in public conversations or service design.

Founder
Annika Sten Pärson, Göran Carlson, Anders Lindström & Sofia Heidenberg
Geography
Sweden
Organizational type
Thematic area
Time of investment
2019
Co-investors
Next in Mind
Jane and Dan Olsson Foundations
Stiftelsen Frimurare Barnhuset i Stockholm
Jämställdhetsmyndigheten
Region Stockholm
Helge Ax:son Johnsons Stiftelse
Åhlen-Stiftelsen
Ruth och Richard Juhlins Stiftelse
Tangible impact
700
patients received individual therapy
17,000
therapy hours provided
70
volunteer therapists
“With the support of The Inner Foundation, we can provide services that set the path for health and a brighter future for young adults.”
– Caroline Stiernstedt Sahlborn, General Secretary of 1825














