In total, the Poison Information Centre handled just over 117,000 calls in 2025. The number of calls, which come from both the public and healthcare professionals, is the highest to date, according to the annual report.
Last year, the number of calls about girls aged 15-19 who had used medication for self-harm increased by 10 percent compared to the previous year.
Lock up medicines
It's a worrying trend. Even though our statistics don't give the whole picture, there are other reports that young women are feeling unwell, says Johanna Nordmark Grass.
Many calls are about over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, which are often found at home and can be used impulsively.
"You might open the bathroom cabinet and take what's there. Most people are careful to lock up medication when their children are small and don't think that even teenagers who are unwell can be a risk group," says Johanna Nordmark Grass.
Antidepressants and medications used for ADHD are also commonly used in self-harm. These may be medications that the teenager uses.
Alarm over nitrous oxide
According to Johanna Nordmark Grass, there should be no more than a couple of doses available.
It's clear that a girl with menstrual pain shouldn't have to ask her parents for painkillers every time, but there shouldn't be large quantities available, she says.
Tramadol is another drug where the number of calls increased sharply between 2024 and 2025, rising from 483 to 760. Since its prescription is decreasing, there are suspicions that these are illegal variants.
One positive piece of news is that calls about nitrous oxide abuse have decreased significantly. This summer, a law was passed banning its use for intoxicating purposes.
We see that the legislation has had an effect, says Johanna Nordmark Grass.
Petra Hedbom/TT
Facts: Tips for parents
TT
Keep all medications locked up, preferably in a medicine cabinet.
Also keep over-the-counter medication locked up.
Do not store large quantities at home.
Return unused and old medications to the pharmacy.
Source: Swedish Medicines Agency
In emergencies or if you have thoughts of suicide, always call 112.
This is where you can turn if you feel unwell:
Mind.se.
Suicide Zero – suicidezero.se.
Spes – National Association for Suicide Prevention and Survivor Support. spes.se.
BRIS – children's rights in society. bris.se.
Save the Children – raddabarnen.se. Also for parents.
Alcoholics Anonymous – aa.se.
On-call buddy – receives calls from children and young people up to the age of 25. jourhavandekompis.se.
On-call fellow human being – can be reached at night on 08–702 16 80.
Friends – friends.se.
1177 – healthcare advice and information about the nearest psychiatric emergency department. 1177.se
National mental health and suicide prevention helpline – reachable 24/7 at 90390.
