One in five Germans suffers from depression – an aid project in focus!

One in five Germans suffers from depression – an aid project in focus!

In recent years, an alarming trend has emerged in Germany: According to the Germany Depression Barometer 2024, around 8.2% of 18 to 65 year olds will be affected by depression requiring treatment in 2023. That's over 5 million people suffering from the increasing effects of mental illness, which has now become a new widespread disease. Schwäbische reports that the lifetime prevalence is around 19% - and that means one in five Germans is affected.

The causes for this worrying development are complex and range from the stress caused by the corona pandemic to isolation and home office to fears for the future and economic worries. The rapidly rising cost of living and job insecurity are also contributing to this worrying increase. Above all, the increasing digitalization of the world of work is putting many people under pressure.

The example of Elena Schmidt

Let's take the example of Elena Schmidt, a 40-year-old restaurateur. She suffered from irregular working hours and a strained relationship with her supervisor. Her symptoms included insomnia, loss of self-confidence and even panic attacks. As Mayo Clinic explains, depression is a serious illness that causes persistent sadness and a variety of emotional, physical and cognitive symptoms.

In 2023, Elena received a diagnosis of depression from her family doctor, who recommended outpatient therapy. In November 2023, she entered the day clinic at Pauline-Arkade 13 in Friedrichshafen, where she completed both individual and group therapies. During her stay, she became aware of the Occupational Transition Management (BÜM) project, which has been funded by Aktion Mensch since 2021.

Career transition management – ​​a ray of hope

The aim of the BÜM is to ease the transition between hospital stay and working life and to support mentally ill people. The project offers valuable assistance, particularly for employable people in ZfP South Württemberg facilities, be it with career orientation or applying for rehabilitation services. Project manager Selina Löw reported that 315 people have already been supported since the program started and the offer has been extended until the end of August 2026. This development underlines the importance of early advice and support for returning to the labor market.

Elena is already planning to retrain as an office management clerk in Isny, where regular working hours and free weekends await her. Concrete support for reintegration measures and internships are necessary because the challenges of bureaucratic matters, such as contact with the employment agency or health insurance companies, should not be underestimated.

Social responsibility

These increasing numbers not only show the personal tragedy of those affected like Elena, but also the social responsibility in dealing with mental illnesses. It is not a sign of weakness but a serious health problem. The road to healing can be long and difficult, but support and understanding are essential.

Overall, the measurable effects of depression in Germany are alarming, and it is up to us to raise awareness, help those affected and provide the necessary support. After all, we all have a knack for ensuring that those around us are well.