Germany's ADHD support cuts spark fears over rising family costs

Germany’s Federal Association for Child and Adolescent Psychotherapy has raised concerns over potential cuts to support for young people with ADHD. Health Minister Nina Warken recently acknowledged that more children and adolescents with the condition are now being recognised as needing care. The issue centres on how these families will manage rising costs for additional support and activities. Warken highlighted that groups previously overlooked—such as children and teenagers with ADHD—are now being included in care assessments. Some patients currently receive care level 2, with a few cases even qualifying for level 3.

The association’s deputy chairman, Stephan Osten, argued that many young people with ADHD should be classified under care level 1. This would provide families with financial assistance to cover extra expenses. He suggested that funding through a care classification could ease the burden of extended care hours and costs for specialised programs.

Osten also pointed out that children with ADHD often need more physical activity, which can add to family budgets. Without proper support, these additional expenses could become unmanageable for many households. The debate comes as more young people with ADHD gain recognition for care needs. A decision on care level classifications could determine whether families receive financial help for necessary programs. The outcome may affect how well these children and adolescents can access the support they require.