Germany's School Mental Health Program Faces Sudden Shutdown in 2025

A pilot programme offering mental health support in German schools is set to end next year. The initiative, which placed trained coaches in 80 schools, received strong praise from students and evaluators. But despite its success, the Bundestag has decided to stop funding it by the close of 2025.

The project, known as mentale Gesundheitsbegleiter, launched with 80 schools taking part. Most were in North Rhine-Westphalia, where around 40 schools joined, followed by others in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg. Coaches worked directly in schools, providing a safe space for students to discuss stress, anxiety, and academic pressure.

An evaluation by the University of Leipzig rated the programme highly. Students requested workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and self-efficacy. Many also sought help with broader concerns, including war, the climate crisis, and difficulties in friendships. Yet funding will cease at the end of 2025, leaving many coaches without contracts. Some have already seen their roles expire or not be renewed. Organisations behind the scheme are now trying to move these professionals into school social work or similar positions. Opposition parties in the Bundestag have called for an extension, pointing to the School Barometer's findings. The survey revealed that many young people feel overwhelmed by daily school life. Coaches reported seeing high levels of stress, performance pressure, and fears about the future among students.

The programme will officially conclude in late June, though some schools have already lost their support staff. Without further funding, the future of mental health coaching in schools remains uncertain. Schools and students now face the challenge of finding alternative ways to address growing mental health needs.