Photo: C. Fischer

Academic pressure, conflicts at home or with friends, fears about the future, and the impact of digital media can all take a heavy toll on young people. They don’t always find the courage to talk to someone they trust about their worries. There aren’t always people they can confide in within their circle of friends and family. This makes services like “Nummer gegen Kummer”—an initiative launched by the Child Protection Association—all the more important. Since the 1980s, children and teens have been able to call 116 111 to reach specially trained counselors who provide free and anonymous advice.

Help via Cell Phone

In addition to traditional telephone counseling, those in need can now also reach out via email or chat. Communicating via messaging apps is part of everyday life for most young people and is significantly less intimidating than a phone call: Here, they can take their time to put into words what’s on their minds without having to say it out loud. “Many adolescents today first look for support online,” notes Elke Rahmann, who oversees the project for SAGST. “Chat counseling creates a safe space where they can find support easily and on equal footing. We are particularly impressed that this service is supported by numerous volunteers whose efforts largely remain behind the scenes. Precisely because trust and anonymity are central, they rarely receive public recognition. This makes their contribution all the more important for children and adolescents who, in difficult situations, are looking for a listening ear, guidance, and reliable help.”

In Hesse, the initiative is currently gaining additional momentum. As part of a partnership with the Ministry of Education and Cultural Affairs, all schools in the state are receiving a package containing informational posters and stickers. In school restrooms and other quiet spaces where young people can have a moment to themselves, these materials can serve as a mental door-opener and point the way to “Nummer gegen Kummer.”