Mental Health Crisis Among Youth in Baden-Württemberg Post-Pandemic Highlights Urgent Need for Support

The mental health impact of the COVID-19 pandemic continues to profoundly affect teenagers in Baden-Württemberg, with girls being disproportionately affected. According to an analysis by the DAK-Gesundheit, the number of treated anxiety disorders among girls aged 15 to 17 reached approximately 9,500 in 2024, marking a 55% increase since 2019. Chronic anxiety cases have more than doubled, rising 143% from 6 to 14 per 1,000 girls. Depression treatments have also increased by 35%, while eating disorders saw a 43% spike over the same period.

The DAK study, covering 86,800 children and adolescents with over 4.6 million medical contacts from 2019 to 2024, reveals persistent and concerning trends in youth mental health post-pandemic. DAK's Baden-Württemberg branch head, Siegfried Euerle, warns that these psychological challenges may have long-lasting consequences on education and career prospects if not addressed promptly.

Parallel to these alarming statistics, local initiatives are actively working to raise awareness and reduce stigmatization of mental health issues. An upcoming themed match day, organized in collaboration with the Robert-Enke-Stiftung and the Round Table Saarbrücken, seeks to foster open conversations and educate the public about depression, particularly in sports contexts. The 'RES on Tour' project will provide information booths in stadiums, creating accessible platforms for players, fans, and officials to engage and learn about mental well-being.

The Round Table Saarbrücken emphasizes destigmatization and practical support for mental health, offering resources and information to attendees during the event. These efforts underscore the importance of community involvement and education in combating the mental health crisis facing young people.

In summary, the lasting psychological fallout from the pandemic among Baden-Württemberg’s youth demands both urgent healthcare responses and broad societal engagement to support recovery and resilience.