German social organizations expand youth mental health counseling

Religious and social organizations in Germany are expanding low-threshold counseling services to support children, youth, and families facing psychological and social crises.

The Evangelical Church Association of Cologne and Region is launching a diakonia donation for 2026/2027 to strengthen counseling services at its locations in Cologne, Bensberg, and Frechen. The initiative aims to expand support for young people and create additional group offerings for children in stressful life situations, addressing issues such as family conflicts, school pressure, grief, and illness.

In the Düren district, the “Lotsenstelle” youth counseling center, operated by the Sozialwerk Dürener Christen, provides free, confidential, and voluntary support for individuals aged 14 to 26. The center focuses on mental health challenges and has recently introduced a monthly meeting point to combat loneliness. The service aims to reduce stigma and provide an accessible entry point for young people struggling with psychological burdens.