Reducing Mental Health Issues through Physical Activity

With NOK 2.5 million in support from Kavli Trust, En Frisk Generation ("A Healthy Generation") will work to promote equitable health for families with children across Sweden. Through a variety of free activities, the project aims to improve physical and mental health, strengthen family relationships, foster greater integration, and create safer local communities.

About the project

Over the next two years, Kavli Trust will support En Frisk Generation’s (“A Healthy Generation's”) work to promote more equitable health with NOK 2.5 million. During the project period, the organisation will organise health-promoting activities across Sweden.

En Frisk Generation is a Swedish non-profit organisation focusing on the whole family, aiming to improve health and well-being by addressing multiple aspects of life. Physical activity and good nutrition are essential for both physical and mental health. Through its methodology, family relationships are strengthened, as children and parents participate in activities together—something many families do not prioritise today.

Because many of the activities take place outdoors in local neighbourhoods, parents and children report feeling safer in their surroundings. More parents are active in the local area, and children encounter additional adult role models, contributing to a positive community.

"It is with great pleasure that Kavli Trust enters into this collaboration with En Frisk Generation. Kavli Trust aims to strengthen the mental health of children and young people through our grants. We know that good health is closely linked to access to information and knowledge. The organisation’s work in providing easily accessible, high-quality opportunities is important for promoting healthy lifestyle habits among children and their families," says Inger Elise Iversen, CEO of Kavli Trust.

All profits from Kavli Sweden go to Kavli Trust, which distributes the entire surplus to charitable causes.

"Kavli wants to strengthen the mental health of children and young people through support for En Frisk Generation. Its free health-promoting activities are vital for encouraging good lifestyle habits, contributing to the well-being of children and their families. It is fantastic for us to be able to participate and contribute to this project," says Jonny Mattsson, CEO of Kavli Sweden.

Long-term collaboration

The organisation looks forward to a long-term partnership with Kavli Trust.

"Kavli Trust’s decision to support us means we can reach even more people with our initiatives. We know that what we do is important and effective, as shown by evaluations of the methodology conducted by the Karolinska Institute. Kavli Trust gives us the opportunity we need to develop our work and reverse the current trend. The widespread sedentary behaviour among children is a global challenge that we must all take seriously," says Janna Hellerup, Secretary General of En Frisk Generation.

The project, “Reducing Mental Health Issues through Physical Activity and Increased Safety”, begins this autumn and will run for 24 months. By offering free activities for families, knowledge about healthy eating, and parental support, the organisation aims to improve physical and mental health, strengthen family relationships, increase integration, and create safer local communities.