Story perspectives

Sweden's Apotek Hjärtat Fights Loneliness with 'Friend Care'

2/7/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Apotek Hjärtat, Sweden's largest private drugstore chain, launched a 'Friend Care' program to combat loneliness, providing 15 minutes for social activities.
The initiative is funded by a $100 annual budget.
A government study cites loneliness as a mental health crisis, noting 8% of Swedish adults have no close friends.
Monica Magnusson, CEO of Apotek Hjärtat, says addressing loneliness is crucial for well-being.
IKEA has expressed interest in similar programs.

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Story summary

Apotek Hjärtat, Sweden's largest private drugstore chain, launched a 'Friend Care' program to combat loneliness, providing 15 minutes for social activities.
The initiative is funded by a $100 annual budget.
A government study cites loneliness as a mental health crisis, noting 8% of Swedish adults have no close friends.
Monica Magnusson, CEO of Apotek Hjärtat, says addressing loneliness is crucial for well-being.
IKEA has expressed interest in similar programs.