Moving to a new country can be exciting, but it also comes with challenges such as culture shock, homesickness, stress, and adjusting to new routines. For many foreigners in Denmark, mental health and emotional wellbeing become just as important as physical health. That’s why it’s important to know how to navigate the field of mental health in Denmark.
Denmark is often ranked as one of the “happiest” countries in the world, but this does not mean people don’t face mental health struggles. Like anywhere else, issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, or burnout are common—and foreigners may also experience additional difficulties, including language barriers, isolation, or limited support networks.
The good news is that Denmark takes mental health seriously, and there are multiple pathways to get support—from public healthcare services to private therapists, online platforms, and expat-focused groups. Understanding how these systems work will help you access the right kind of care for your needs. Thus, in this guide, we write everything you should know about mental health in Denmark.
Here are the key points in this article:
- Denmark’s Approach to Mental Health Support: Denmark provides accessible mental health services through public and private options, recognizing its importance despite being one of the happiest countries.
- Accessing Public Healthcare for Mental Health: The Danish healthcare system typically begins with a general practitioner referral, which can lead to subsidized or free mental health services but often involves long waiting times.
- Private Mental Health Services as an Alternative: Many foreigners favor private psychologists, therapists, and online platforms due to shorter waiting times and the availability of English-speaking professionals.
- Workplace and University Support Systems: Employers and universities in Denmark offer mental health support, including counseling, stress management programs, and peer networks to aid mental wellbeing.
- Key Statistics on Mental Health in Denmark: Approximately 16-20% of Danes experience poor mental health symptoms, with stress and depression being most common; foreigners may face higher risks due to social and cultural challenges.
If you are looking for more in-depth guides on specific matters related to mental health in Denmark as a foreigner, you may want to read our other guides, where we delve deeper into these specific areas:
- Best Psychologists in Denmark for foreigners
- Best Therapists in Denmark for foreigners
- Best Stress coaches in Denmark for foreigners
Accessing Public Healthcare as a Foreigner in Denmark
Denmark’s healthcare system provides access to mental health services, but the pathway is structured and often begins with your general practitioner (GP). If you’re struggling, your first step is usually to book an appointment with your GP, who can assess your situation and, if needed, give you a referral to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Psychologists under the public system
- You may be eligible for subsidized sessions with a psychologist if you meet specific criteria (e.g., depression, anxiety, trauma, or bereavement). In these cases, part of the fee is covered by the Danish health insurance system.
- However, subsidies do not apply to all conditions, and waiting times can be long, particularly in bigger cities.
Psychiatrists under the public system
- If you require psychiatric evaluation or medication, your GP can refer you to a psychiatrist, who is fully covered under public health insurance.
- Waiting times for psychiatric services may also be long, but urgent cases are prioritized.
University and student support
If you are a student in Denmark, Danish universities often provide free counseling services in English, which can be a helpful starting point before moving to other public or private options.
To tie it all together, public mental health care in Denmark is accessible, but it often involves waiting lists and eligibility criteria. For many foreigners, this makes private health- and mental care an important alternative.
Private Mental Health Options in Denmark
For many foreigners, private mental health services are the most practical choice, especially when long waiting times or limited coverage make public services less accessible. Denmark has a strong private mental health sector, and many professionals—psychologists, therapists, and coaches—offer services in English, which makes it more accessible and meaningful for if you are a foreigner with little Danish knowledge.
Private Psychologists and Therapists
- No referral from a GP is needed, meaning you can book directly.
- Sessions usually cost between 900–1,200 DKK per hour, though prices vary by city and specialization.
- Some private health insurance plans (through work or international providers) cover part of the cost.
Online Therapy and Expat-Friendly Services
- Platforms such as online psychologists or international therapy networks can be useful for those more comfortable with English or their native language.
- Many expat-focused psychologists offer remote sessions via video call, making them more accessible regardless of location.
Stress Coaches and Alternative Support
Beyond traditional therapy, you’ll also find stress coaches, mindfulness trainers, and life coaches, who may not be part of the public healthcare system but can still be valuable for adjustment, stress management, and resilience building.
Public vs. Private Mental Health Services in Denmark
| Feature | Public Healthcare | Private Healthcare |
|---|---|---|
| Access | Requires GP referral | Direct booking, no referral needed |
| Cost | Free or subsidized (if eligible) | 900–1,200 DKK per session (varies) |
| Coverage | Limited to specific conditions (e.g., depression, anxiety, trauma) | Covers all types of mental health support, including coaching |
| Waiting Time | Often long, especially in big cities | Short waiting time or immediate |
| Language Options | Primarily Danish, limited English availability | Many English-speaking therapists, expat-focused services |
| Flexibility | Structured process, less choice in provider | Wide choice of providers, flexible scheduling |
Workplace and University Support for Mental Health
In Denmark, workplaces and universities play an important role in supporting mental health, both for Danes and for foreigners. Since mental wellbeing is often seen as connected to productivity, study success, and overall integration, many institutions have built-in systems to help.
Workplace Mental Health Support
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs): Many international companies in Denmark offer EAPs, giving employees access to confidential counseling, either in person or online.
- Health Insurance through Work: Employers often provide supplementary health insurance that covers private psychologists, reducing out-of-pocket costs.
- Work-Life Balance Culture: Denmark is known for its strong emphasis on work-life balance. Shorter working hours, flexible schedules, and generous leave policies indirectly support mental wellbeing.
University Mental Health Support
- Student Counselling Services (Studievejledning): Danish universities typically have in-house counselling, offering free sessions with trained professionals.
- International Student Services: Many universities provide specific guidance and support in English, making it easier for foreign students to seek help.
- Peer Support Networks: Student organizations often run peer-to-peer support groups, which can be especially valuable for foreigners adjusting to life in Denmark.
Why Mental Health in Denmark Matters for Foreigners
For internationals working or studying in Denmark, these institutional supports can make a big difference. They offer accessible, affordable, and culturally sensitive entry points into the Danish mental health system without navigating the full complexity of public or private healthcare on your own.
What the Numbers Say About Mental Health in Denmark
Understanding the landscape of mental health in Denmark can help foreigners better navigate available services and anticipate challenges. Research highlights both Denmark’s strong focus on wellbeing and areas where access can still be difficult.
General Mental Health Trends
- According to the National Institute of Public Health, around 16–20% of the Danish population experiences symptoms of poor mental health at any given time.
- Stress and depression are the most commonly reported mental health concerns, particularly among young adults and working-age populations.
- Denmark has one of the highest rates of antidepressant use in Europe, reflecting both accessibility of treatment and rising awareness of mental health issues.
Mental Health Among Foreigners
- Studies show that foreigners often face higher risks of anxiety and depression due to social isolation, language barriers, and challenges in adapting to a new culture.
- International students in Denmark frequently cite loneliness and stress as key challenges, even when universities provide support.
- Migrant and refugee populations face additional obstacles, including trauma-related mental health conditions and difficulties navigating the healthcare system.
Access to Care
- Research also suggests that language support remains a gap: while some therapists offer sessions in English or other languages, demand still outweighs supply.
- In Denmark, there is a shortage of publicly available psychologists, meaning waiting times can stretch up to several months.
- Foreigners with private insurance or employer-provided coverage often access care faster through private clinics.
FAQ About Mental Health in Denmark as a Foreigner
Is therapy free in Denmark?
Therapy with a psychologist is not fully free, but with a doctor’s referral you can get partial coverage if you meet specific criteria (e.g., depression, anxiety, trauma). Without referral, you usually pay privately unless covered by insurance.
Do psychologists in Denmark speak English?
Yes, many psychologists and therapists offer sessions in English, especially in larger cities like Copenhagen, Aarhus, and Odense. Some also provide services in other languages, but demand is high, so it’s best to book early.
How long is the waiting time to see a psychologist?
Publicly referred psychologists often have waiting times of 3–6 months. Private clinics can usually offer faster appointments, but at a higher cost.
Can international students get mental health support?
Yes, most universities have counseling services in English. These are typically free, though short-term. For longer-term care, students may need private psychologists or to use Danish healthcare options.
What role do employers play in mental health support?
Many Danish companies provide access to stress coaches, workplace counselors, or employee assistance programs (EAPs). Larger organizations often have structured wellbeing policies.
Is mental health stigmatized in Denmark?
Awareness has grown significantly, and open discussions about mental health are common in schools, universities, and workplaces. However, foreigners may still experience cultural differences in how mental health in Denmark is approached compared to their home countries.
Are there emergency mental health services?
Yes. In urgent cases, you can call 1813 (Greater Copenhagen) or the local emergency number 112 if it’s a crisis. Psychiatric emergency rooms (psykiatrisk skadestue) are available in most regions.
