Online Suicide Prevention in Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim - Rhineland-Palatinate Premier Malu Dreyer champions youth suicide prevention as U25 ambassador
Rhineland-Palatinate Premier Malu Dreyer has taken on a new role as ambassador for U25, an online suicide prevention initiative for young people. The programme, run by Caritas Germany, aims to support those in crisis through peer counselling and confidential advice. Her involvement comes as suicide remains the leading cause of death among young Germans, according to recent figures.
The U25 initiative has been offering free, low-threshold online counselling since 2001. Over the past two decades, more than 250,000 young people across the country have accessed its services. Last year alone, around 1,700 individuals received support through the programme.
The service operates in 14 locations, including Mainz, Worms, and Rüsselsheim. It relies on trained peer counsellors—young people who have themselves experienced crises—to guide others in similar situations. For three new sites planned by 2028, 380 counsellors will undergo 32 hours of specialised training.
Caritas Germany is now pushing for stronger federal backing. The organisation has called on Federal Health Minister Nina Warken to finalise the Suicide Prevention Act, ensuring long-term funding and structured prevention measures. Their goal is to secure reliable support systems for young people at risk.
Premier Dreyer's role as ambassador highlights the initiative's focus on accessibility and solidarity. The programme's expansion aims to ensure no young person in crisis feels isolated. With federal funding still under discussion, the push for sustainable prevention continues.
