Seeking Solutions for Children and Adolescents Stuck in Therapy - Hesse tackles mental health crisis with faster psychotherapy access for youth

A state-level working group in Hesse is examining ways to improve access to psychotherapeutic care for young people. The move follows concerns over long delays in treatment for children and adolescents with mental health issues. Officials are now analysing the gap between available services and rising demand.

In 2024, one in five patients aged 15 to 24 in Hesse received a mental illness diagnosis during a full inpatient hospital stay. Mental illnesses and behavioural disorders remain the leading cause of hospitalisation among this age group. On average, these patients spent nearly 27 days in hospital care.

The working group includes representatives from the regional government, health insurance providers, and hospitals. Their task is to find solutions for faster access to psychotherapy. Currently, the distribution of psychotherapists follows federal guidelines, with planning handled at county and municipal levels.

Federal laws already set standards for appointment availability and maximum wait times. However, Hesse's ministry is now reviewing whether these measures meet the needs of young patients. No recent data exists on how many new psychotherapy positions have been created in Germany over the past five years to address demand.

The group's findings will help shape future policies for mental health care in Hesse. Officials aim to reduce treatment delays and ensure better support for young people. The focus remains on aligning supply with the growing number of cases requiring urgent attention.