Study: Mental Strain on Children Rises Again for the First Time Since the Pandemic - Germany's youth mental health crisis deepens post-pandemic as schools act

Mental health challenges among children and young people in Germany have grown since the pandemic. A 2025 report by the Deutsche Schulbarometer shows 25% now feel mentally burdened, up from 21% the previous year. Schools have responded with targeted measures to ease pressure and improve student well-being.

The rise in psychological strain has been sharpest among teenage girls. In Hesse, anxiety levels among 15- to 17-year-old girls have jumped by 76% since 2019, according to a DAK report. Depression rates have also climbed, prompting calls for stronger support systems.

Schools have introduced initiatives to create a more supportive environment. Experts from Universität Leipzig recommend increasing student participation to improve life quality and reduce stress. Key factors in well-being include feeling supported by teachers, managing academic challenges without overload, and fostering a positive classroom atmosphere.

Despite progress, bullying remains a widespread issue. One in three students aged 11 to 17 reports being bullied at least once a month, with 14-year-olds most affected. In-person bullying happens more often than cyberbullying, though the two frequently overlap. Awareness campaigns have helped—four out of five students now know where to seek help if bullied.

Academic pressure also weighs heavily on young people. Nearly half of all respondents study even on weekends, contributing to stress. However, those who believe in their own academic abilities tend to report higher overall well-being.

Children from low-income families face greater struggles. They are more likely to experience psychological distress, poor well-being at school, and a lower quality of life compared to their peers.

The data highlights both progress and ongoing challenges in youth mental health. Schools have taken steps to reduce stress and improve support, but bullying and academic pressure persist. Targeted interventions remain critical, especially for vulnerable groups like teenage girls and children from disadvantaged backgrounds.