Study: Mental Strain on Children Rises Again for the First Time Since the Pandemic - Germany's youth mental health crisis deepens as one in four struggle

A growing number of children and teenagers in Germany are struggling with mental health issues. New data reveals that one in four now report feeling mentally burdened—a sharp rise since 2019. The problem is especially severe among low-income families, where young people face higher levels of distress, poor well-being at school, and a lower quality of life overall.

The trend mirrors global patterns, though some countries show different developments. Experts point to school pressures, bullying, and a lack of support as key factors behind the decline in youth mental health.

Since 2019, psychological strain among young people in Germany has surged. Suicide attempts among girls have risen by 55%, while boys saw a 22% increase, according to the Robert Koch Institute and OECD Health Statistics 2024. Similar spikes in depression and anxiety have been reported in Sweden and the US, though Japan and South Korea have seen more stable or even declining rates.

School life plays a major role in students' well-being. Those who feel supported by teachers, face appropriate academic challenges, and experience a positive classroom environment tend to report better mental health. Confidence in their own academic abilities also boosts overall well-being. Yet nearly half of all students now face intense pressure, including weekend study sessions. Bullying remains a widespread issue, with one-third of 11- to 17-year-olds experiencing it at least once a month. Fourteen-year-olds are particularly vulnerable. In-person bullying is more common than cyberbullying, though the two often overlap. Despite this, four out of five students know where to seek help if they are targeted.

The data highlights a clear need for stronger mental health support in schools and communities. With one in four young people feeling mentally burdened, targeted interventions—such as better teacher-student relationships, manageable academic expectations, and anti-bullying measures—could help reverse the trend. The findings also suggest that awareness of support services is high, but access and effectiveness may still require improvement.