Specific situation
My child is under severe stress: first steps
Does your child withdraw, sleep poorly or no longer want to go to school? This page shows who to talk to first and when professional help is important.
View next stepsWithdrawal, sleep problems, fear of school or a severe decline in mood can be signs of stress. You don't have to figure this out alone.
You can do that now
- 01
Offer the conversation without putting pressure on people. Listening is more important than quick solutions.
- 02
Keep everyday life stable: sleep, food, school and fixed routines provide stability.
- 03
Involve the school. School social work provides advice free of charge and generally confidentially.
- 04
Get a professional assessment: from the school psychology service or your pediatrician's office.
- 05
If you suspect an illness: Have your child examined by a child and adolescent psychiatric specialist, for example at the UPK Polyclinic for Children and Adolescents.
Important details
How to avoid common mistakes
- Take changes seriously without dramatizing them
- Talk openly about help - this will relieve your child's stress
- Don't just wait for an appointment: 147 and trusted people will help immediately
When advice makes sense
Get advice if symptoms persist. This page does not replace a diagnosis.
You can continue here
School social work at your school
Conflicts, exclusion, stress and social problems
School psychology service
School, psychological and family stress
Advice 147
Help for children and young people – by telephone around the clock
Sources and topicalityOpen binding information
Open Knowledge explains the next step. When it comes to deadlines, amounts and decisions, the linked current information from the responsible body always applies.
The responsible body will examine and decide on your personal case.