A former Social Democratic Party (SPD) politician is advocating for a significant shift in attitudes toward mental health and a substantial improvement in access to psychotherapy services. Michael Roth, who previously chaired the Bundestag’s Foreign Affairs Committee, emphasized the urgent need for expanded therapeutic structures, stating that current systems are failing to adequately support individuals experiencing mental health challenges.
Roth told the Redaktionsnetzwerk Deutschland that individuals should not feel compelled to burden themselves, their families, or friends with their mental health struggles, but pointed to a critical shortage of specialists, particularly in more rural areas. This lack of accessible professional help necessitates immediate action.
He also addressed the pervasive stigma surrounding mental illness in Germany, highlighting a culture that often deems individuals with mental health conditions as less capable. Roth described a system where acknowledging therapeutic treatment can negatively impact professional opportunities, potentially forcing individuals to conceal their struggles. He cited the possibility of having to resign from a ministerial position upon disclosure as a prime example of this untenable situation.
Roth, who publicly shared his own mental health experiences and subsequently chose not to seek re-election to the Bundestag, is releasing an autobiographical book, “Zones of Angst” this week. His statements underscore a call for increased understanding, acceptance and meaningful reform within Germany’s approach to mental health support and treatment.