Rising School Anxiety Among Youth Highlights Call for Health Education in German Schools

School-related anxiety among children is a growing mental health issue in Germany that manifests through physical symptoms such as stomach pain, headaches, dizziness, and diarrhea. Many children suffering from this anxiety try to avoid school, which can worsen their condition as absenteeism often leads to them falling behind academically, thereby increasing their fear of attending school. Experts stress that parents must take signs of school anxiety seriously and not dismiss them as mere reluctance to go to school.

Parallel to concerns about mental health challenges like school anxiety, a recent survey by Hanse-Merkur-Krankenversicherung reveals strong public support for introducing health education as a dedicated subject in German schools. According to the survey, 71% of Germans favor a health subject that promotes knowledge and personal responsibility for well-being. The majority, 75%, believe that maintaining health demands active effort rather than being automatic.

The survey, which included over 2,000 participants, also found that while 52% of respondents pay attention to their health, many recognize there is room for improvement. Key motivations for healthy living include aging healthily (52%) and enhancing well-being (41%). However, common barriers such as lack of motivation, time constraints, and financial issues hinder healthier lifestyles. Only 51% of participants felt adequately informed to manage their health effectively. Eberhard Sautter, CEO of Hanse-Merkur, emphasized, "Health is not automatic but a task," highlighting the critical role education plays in preparing individuals to handle their well-being responsibly.

These findings suggest a strong alignment between public concern over mental health issues like school anxiety and the desire for structured health education in schools to empower young people. Providing students comprehensive health education could address knowledge gaps, improve personal health management, and potentially mitigate anxiety-related problems by promoting holistic well-being from an early age.