Actor Joel Kinnaman criticized Swedish drug policies during an interview on Sveriges Radio’s program “Sommerprat” in P1, according to the Swedish newspaper Aftonbladet. Kinnaman stated that Sweden remains stuck in a 1960s mindset regarding narcotics despite being progressive in other areas. The 46-year-old actor raised the topic after attempting to discuss plant medicine, which he has used to address mental health struggles, during the broadcast.
Joel Kinnaman Criticizes Swedish Drug Policies as Outdated
According to Aftonbladet, Kinnaman expressed frustration during his appearance on Sveriges Radio regarding institutional attitudes toward consciousness-expanding preparations. The actor stated that Sweden has failed to follow global developments in drug policy. He noted that he wanted to share specific experiences regarding plant medicine, but the broadcaster did not wish to explore the subject in depth because the preparations remain illegal in Sweden.
“I would have liked to tell a little more specifically about my experiences with taking various consciousness-expanding preparations,” Kinnaman said during the broadcast, according to Aftonbladet. “I think I have a valuable perspective on it. But apparently I wasn’t allowed to talk about it on Sveriges Radio because the preparations are illegal in Sweden.”
Mental Health Struggles and Plant Medicine Use
In the “Sommerprat” broadcast, Kinnaman revealed that he has struggled for several years with hearing voices in his head. To cope with these symptoms previously, he used distractions such as partying, alcohol, and narcotics. He now manages his mental health more methodically through regular meditation, yoga, and what he describes as plant medicine and nature medicine, including mushrooms.
Did you know? Joel Kinnaman rose to international prominence starring as character JW in the Swedish film trilogy “Snabba Cash,” released between 2010 and 2013, before transitioning to Hollywood roles including “Suicide Squad.”
From Swedish Crime Thrillers to Hollywood and Harry Hole
Kinnaman established his career in Nordic noir and major international blockbusters. Following his breakthrough in the “Snabba Cash” films, he secured prominent Hollywood roles. Earlier this year, audiences saw Kinnaman portray corrupt police officer Tom Waaler in the television series “Harry Hole,” which adapts the books by author Jo Nesbø based on the novel “Marekors.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Joel Kinnaman say about Swedish drug policy?
According to Aftonbladet, Kinnaman stated on Sveriges Radio that Sweden’s perspective on drugs remains stuck in the 1960s and has failed to follow global developments.
Why did Sveriges Radio restrict the interview discussion?
Kinnaman stated during the broadcast that he was not permitted to discuss consciousness-expanding preparations in detail because those substances are illegal in Sweden.
What methods does Kinnaman use for mental health management?
According to his statements in “Sommerprat,” Kinnaman uses meditation, yoga, and plant medicine, including mushrooms, after previously relying on alcohol and narcotics to cope with mental health struggles.
What are your thoughts on how media handles discussions around alternative treatments and mental health? Join the conversation by sharing your views below.
Keep reading