Finnish Families Can Receive Support for Children with ADHD
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Finnish Families Can Receive Support for Children with ADHD
- In 2023, Finland saw an 11% increase in children under 16 receiving disability support, with ADHD being the most common reason, showing a 33% increase from the previous year.
- The Finnish Social Insurance Institution, Kela, is responsible for these benefits, which can include disability allowance for children and rehabilitation services.
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Families in Finland can receive various forms of financial and rehabilitative support for children diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). This support is part of Finland’s comprehensive system for children with disabilities, which emphasizes equality, accessibility, and inclusion.
In 2023, there was a notable rise in disability support for children under 16, with ADHD being the primary driver. The number of children receiving disability support for ADHD increased by 33% from the previous year, and by an impressive 322% over the last decade. By the end of 2023, approximately 10,900 children were receiving support for ADHD, representing 23% of all child disability support recipients.
The Finnish Social Insurance Institution, known as Kela, manages these benefits. A child under 16 may be eligible for a disability allowance if they have a physician-diagnosed disability or long-term illness, and if their care is more demanding than that of a child without such a condition for at least six months. The allowance rates vary based on the intensity of care, treatment, and rehabilitation required.
Beyond financial aid, Kela also offers rehabilitation services. For example, LAKU family rehabilitation is available for children and adolescents aged 7–15 diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders like ADHD, providing 18 months of support to the child and their family. Additionally, for young adults aged 16-29 with neurodevelopmental disorders, “Oma Väylä” rehabilitation can assist with studies, work, and life management skills.
It’s important to note that a diagnosis of ADHD does not automatically guarantee disability allowance; eligibility depends on the degree of impairment and the increased need for assistance or supervision compared to other children of the same age. The Finnish system also provides for other forms of assistance, such as informal care allowance for parents providing round-the-clock care, school transport, and personal assistants for educational needs.