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 in 2025
Psychological strain among children and teenagers in Germany has risen sharply, with one in four reporting mental health struggles in 2025. The latest School Barometer from the Robert Bosch Foundation highlights growing pressures, from academic stress to bullying, while also pointing to new support measures now taking shape across the country.
The report reveals that nearly half of all students face intense academic demands, often studying through weekends. Children from low-income households bear a heavier burden, reporting higher levels of distress, poorer school experiences, and lower overall well-being. Meanwhile, bullying remains widespread, with one-third of 11- to 17-year-olds experiencing it at least monthly—particularly among 14-year-olds. In-person incidents occur more often than cyberbullying, though the two frequently overlap.
Despite these challenges, awareness campaigns appear to be making an impact. Four out of five students now know where to seek help if bullied. The study also found that well-being improves when pupils trust their academic abilities, feel supported by teachers, and experience a positive classroom environment. In response to the findings, the **Mental Health Alliance** launched on 18 February 2026, backed by multiple foundations, including the Robert Bosch Stiftung. The initiative focuses on prevention, early intervention in schools and families, and collaboration between science, politics, and young people. Existing programmes like *Mental Health Coaches* (running until 2025/2026), *SOS Mental Health Peers*, and *MindMatters* are already active in thousands of schools. Additional efforts include the *Uns geht's gut?* campaign by the Bundesschülerkonferenz and a specialist forum on Urban Mental Health scheduled for 11 March 2026.
The expansion of mental health support comes as schools and communities face rising demand. With targeted programmes now in place, the aim is to reduce academic pressure, combat bullying, and ensure vulnerable groups receive timely help. The next steps will depend on sustained funding, training for educators, and continued involvement of young people in shaping solutions.
Read also:
- Executive from significant German automobile corporation advocates for a truthful assessment of transition toward electric vehicles
- Crisis in a neighboring nation: immediate cheese withdrawal at Rewe & Co, resulting in two fatalities.
- United Kingdom Christians Voice Opposition to Assisted Dying Legislation
- Democrats are subtly dismantling the Affordable Care Act. Here's the breakdown
