Germany Advances Mental Health Support with New Youth Training, Addiction Prevention, and Public Figures Speaking Out

Germany has recently intensified its focus on mental health awareness and support through several impactful initiatives and candid public disclosures. These efforts address youth mental health education, addiction prevention, and the recognition of burnout in the public eye.

In Mainz-Bingen, 20 professionals completed the 14-hour "Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) Youth" training course designed to equip them with skills to recognize mental health issues in adolescents aged 12 to 18. Led by expert Momo Sabel, the course combined theoretical insights with practical exercises, including role-playing and group discussions, to teach strategies for effective communication and crisis intervention. This program aims to empower youth workers to identify early signs of distress and connect young people with necessary professional help.

Meanwhile, the Bundesinstitut für Öffentliche Gesundheit (BIÖG) and the Verband der Privaten Krankenversicherung e.V. (PKV) launched "VORTIV – Vor Ort Aktiv," a project enhancing municipal addiction prevention. This initiative provides free online training featuring eight modules on networking, coordination, and sustainability, alongside expert consultations to assist local communities in developing robust prevention strategies. Dr. Johannes Nießen from BIÖG emphasized the need for well-organized networks in addiction prevention, while Dr. Florian Reuther of PKV highlighted the importance of reaching young people in their everyday surroundings.

Adding a personal dimension to mental health discourse, popular German YouTuber Rewinside announced an extended break from streaming due to burnout following months of intense stress. After experiencing a panic attack, he has chosen to prioritize his mental health by reducing his streaming schedule to two to three times a week. Rewinside acknowledged, "I have noticed that I am completely at the end... I was super knocked out and had no strength left to do anything."

Together, these developments underscore Germany’s growing commitment to mental health awareness, particularly targeting youth support and community-based addiction prevention, while also candidly addressing the individual toll of burnout.