Online Suicide Prevention in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim - Germany's U25 suicide prevention program expands to save young lives
A novel online suicide prevention program for youth has debuted in the Diocese of Mainz. Rhineland-Palatinate Premier Malu Dreyer is championing the endeavor, which aims to assist vulnerable young people grappling with suicidal thoughts. The expansion comes as suicide continues to top the list of causes of death among German youth, per Caritas Germany.
The Caritas Association's U25 online service has now grown to 14 locations across the nation, adding Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim to its network. Since 2001, the program has offered free, confidential counseling to young people, aiding approximately 1,700 last year alone.
The initiative depends on peer counselors—380 in total—who will undergo 32 hours of training for the new sites. Their role is to provide support to young people struggling with suicidal thoughts, ensuring they do not feel isolated. Premier Dreyer has made the project a personal priority, emphasizing the importance of accessible help for those in distress.
Caritas Germany is also advocating for federal support, urging Health Minister Nina Warken to finalize the long-awaited Suicide Prevention Act. The goal is to secure stable funding for the three new locations by 2028, ensuring the program's long-term sustainability.
The expansion brings crucial support to more young people across Germany. With trained peer advisors and a focus on low-threshold access, the initiative aims to decrease youth suicide rates. Organizers now look to federal legislation to fortify and fund these life-saving services.
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