DGB report: 50.6% of German apprentices report mental strain

The latest DGB vocational training report reveals that 50.6% of apprentices in Germany report feeling mentally burdened. General satisfaction among trainees has dropped to 65.7%, the lowest level recorded since data collection began.

Key drivers of this mental strain include financial concerns (49.9%), housing issues (35%), performance and time pressure (20.9%), staff shortages (19.6%), and high levels of responsibility (19.2%). The report highlights a strong correlation between the quality of supervision and mental health: only 8.5% of apprentices with good professional guidance report high levels of stress, compared to 36% of those receiving poor supervision.

Physical and structural symptoms are also prevalent, with 49.4% of respondents reporting exhaustion and 43.9% stating they continue to work even when ill. While some metrics such as long commuting times and constant availability have seen slight decreases, the DGB emphasizes an urgent need for improved workplace organization and better support for trainees.