Online Suicide Prevention in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim - Germany's U25 Suicide Prevention Initiative Expands to Three New Cities
A new online suicide prevention initiative for young people has expanded into three more German cities. The U25 programme, backed by Caritas Germany, now operates in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim. Malu Dreyer, Premier of Rhineland-Palatinate, has taken on an ambassadorial role to support the effort.
Suicide remains the leading cause of death among young people in Germany, according to Eva Welskop-Deffaa, president of Caritas Germany. Last year alone, around 1,700 young individuals received support through the organisation's online counselling services.
The U25 initiative offers free, confidential peer support for those in crisis. Since 2001, Caritas Germany has provided low-threshold online counselling, ensuring young people can access help without barriers. The latest expansion brings the total number of U25 locations across the country to 14.
To prepare for the new sites, 380 peer counsellors will undergo 32 hours of specialised training. The goal is to secure federal funding for the three new locations by 2028. Meanwhile, Caritas Germany has called on Federal Health Minister Nina Warken to finalise the Suicide Prevention Act, which would create a legal framework for such programmes.
Malu Dreyer has emphasised the importance of ensuring young people in crisis do not feel isolated. Her involvement as an ambassador highlights the initiative's focus on accessibility and immediate support.
The U25 programme continues to grow, now covering 14 locations nationwide. With trained peer counsellors and a push for federal funding, the initiative aims to provide long-term support for vulnerable young people. The call for a Suicide Prevention Act remains a key step in strengthening these efforts.
