Expat life comes with many positives, but it does throw up its own unique set of challenges. To maintain your wellbeing in Germany, you need to ensure that you are taking care of your mental, physical, financial and social health.
Wellbeing and life satisfaction in Germany
People in Germany generally report a high level of wellbeing. According to the OECD Better Life Index, when asked to rate their general life satisfication on a scale of 0 to 10, Germans gave it a 7,3 grade - which is higher than the OECD average of 6,7.
Life in Germany offers all the keys to happiness and satisfaction: households in Germany have an above-average disposable income per capita, 77% of people aged 15 to 64 have a paid job, and just 4% of employees have very long working hours, well below the OECD average of 10%. There is also a good sense of community and high levels of civic participation in Germany - with 90% of people saying they have someone they could rely on in times of need.
Mental healthcare in Germany
However, mental health is a real concern in Germany. According to the German Association for Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, 27,8% of the adult population of Germany lives with a mental health condition. The most common mental health issues in Germany include anxiety, low mood, and alcohol and drug dependancy. Mental health is the second common reason for people taking sick leave, and the number one cause of early retirement.
Germany offers good support to anyone who is struggling with their mental health. If you are in need of support, your first course of action should be to consult with your regular GP, who can refer you to a psychiatrist or psychotherapist. You do have the option of setting up an appointment with a mental health professional directly, but you should check beforehand if they will be covered by your health insurance.
Statutory health insurance in Germany covers outpatient psychotherapy for anyone who has a diagnosed mental health condition, but waiting times can be long in the public system, as demand far outweighs supply, especially in the larger German cities. If you want the cost of your therapy to be covered by your insurance, ensure that your chosen practioner has "health insurance approval" (Kassenzulassung).
Psychologists, therapists & counsellors
If you are experiencing difficulties, such as loneliness, depression, anxiety, stress or sleep disorders, reach out to one of our expat-friendly psychologists, therapists and counsellors for help.
Life coaches in Germany
If you're struggling with motivation or feel like your life is not going in the direction you had imagined, you might consider working with a life coach in Germany. Life coaching can help you resolve personal and career problems, identify strengths and weaknesses, pinpoint areas for development, and regain self-confidence.
Groups & clubs in Germany
Looking to make connections and meet likeminded people? Why not join a group or club, where you get to meet people with similar interests? Our selection of groups and clubs in Germany covers most major cities and interest groups.
Taking care of your physical health
From hiking and cycling to football and tennis, physical activity is a popular pastime in Germany. Nationwide, around 91.000 gymnastics and sports clubs cater to more than 24 million members. Recognising that exercise brings both mental and physical health benefits, the German government has in recent years sought to encourage people to partake in more physical activity.
Many statutory health insurance companies now offer health or prevention courses (both in person and online) to help people take up sports, reduce stress through relaxation, or improve their diets. Some insurers even offer bonus programmes to people who can prove that they are taking efforts to take care of their health, for instance contributing towards the cost of gym memberships or smart fitness devices.