Help & Support

Sometimes it can be a relief to accept support or to talk to others about challenges, uncertainties or personal issues. Seeking help is an important step towards improving your well-being, gaining new perspectives and not having to cope with the demands of student life on your own.

On this page, you will find contact points and support services that can assist you in challenging situations, provide guidance and help you find the right support for your personal or study-related situation.

Emergency support for mental health crises

If you are experiencing an acute mental health crisis or feel at a loss, it is important to seek support. You do not have to cope with difficult situations on your own. Talk to people you trust or get in touch with professional support services.

Even if it is not you yourself but someone close to you who is experiencing a mental health crisis, you do not have to deal with it alone. Coping with the situation can be stressful and raise many questions. Talk to people you trust and, if necessary, seek professional support as well. Difficult situations are often easier to cope with when faced together.

In acute emergencies

If there is an immediate danger to yourself or others, please contact the emergency services immediately:

Police: 110
Ambulance / Emergency services: 112

Telephone support

These services are anonymous, free of charge and available 24 hours a day:

Telephone Counselling Service: 0800 1110111 oder 0800 1110222
Telephone Counselling Service online:Telefon Seelsorge Deutschland
Upper Franconia Crisis Helpline: 0800 / 655 3000 (Further information on the website)

Other ways to help

GPs or psychotherapists
Social psychiatric services
Trusted individuals in your personal circle

Seeking help is an important step and a sign that you are looking after yourself well.

Don’t hesitate – you and your concerns are important!

Do you need help and don't know where to start?

The webite of Support and Advisory Services for Students serves as a guide and provides a structured overview of the support and counseling services available at the University of Bamberg. All the counseling services listed here work closely together to provide you with the best possible support for your concerns.

As your first point of contact for study-related questions and problems, you can reach out to the Central Student Advisory Services. The staff will advise you discreetly and, if necessary—and of course only with your consent—refer you to the appropriate offices and contact persons.

Alternatively, you can also contact the counseling office that is most suitable for you directly.

Would you like to get some help from a psychotherapist?

The Psychotherapy Counseling Service from the Würzburg Student Union offers professional counseling to Bamberg students dealing with mental health challenges, personal crises, and academic issues.

Contact:

Preferably by phone during office hours on Tuesdays from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. or Thursdays from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. (Tel. 0931/8005-820).

You can also contact us by email: pbs-bamberg(at)swerk-wue.de

Elisabeth Landgraf, M.A. in Psychology, Psychologist and Psychotherapist

Psychotherapy Counseling Center of the Würzburg Student Services

Bamberg Branch

Austraße 37

Is your health affecting your studies, and are you wondering where you can find advice and support?

The University of Bamberg’s Study and Disability Contact Point supports prospective students and current students with disabilities, chronic conditions or mental health conditions with all matters relating to inclusive study. Among other things, it provides advice on measures to compensate for disadvantages, individual support options and organising daily student life, and offers students confidential, solution-focused support. Further information and the current consultation hours can be found on the website of the Study and Disability Support Centre.

Are you looking for someone to talk to – in the evening or at night?

Nightline Bamberg offers students an anonymous and confidential service in the evenings and at night where they can talk and share their thoughts.

Opening hours: Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 pm to midnight

Telephone number:
0157 35233503

Is someone close to you suffering from a mental health condition – and are you affected by it too?

You don’t have to face your questions and worries alone!

Perhaps you’re not only coping with the demands of your studies, but also have additional responsibilities or concerns for someone close to you who is struggling with mental health issues.

This could be a parent, a sibling, your partner, a fellow student or a flatmate. The challenges this brings can be overwhelming. Often, family members feel alone with their worries and don’t know what support is available.

If you find yourself in this situation, it may be helpful to get in touch with others in a similar situation or to seek professional advice.

ApK Bayern e. V. (Relatives of People with Mental Illness) supports young relatives and close friends with a range of free services, including:

Online support groups for young carers
Personalised telephone counselling
A social media community for sharing experiences and networking (Instagram: @jungeangehoerige @jungeangehoerige)

Contact: ja(at)lapk-bayern.de

Feel like talking? - Peer counseling via WhatsApp & email

Do you feel like talking—but don’t want to have a face-to-face conversation right now?

The volunteer peer counselors at Studylife-balance offer you the opportunity to talk confidentially and easily—whenever it’s convenient for you, via WhatsApp or email. Our trained peer counselors are here to support you with understanding and as equals.

Are you under 25 and looking for anonymous email counselling from young peer counsellors?

The [U25] online counselling service is a free and confidential support service for young people under the age of 25 who are experiencing a mental health crisis or are struggling with suicidal thoughts. What makes it special is that the counselling is provided on an equal footing by specially trained young peer counsellors and takes place anonymously via email.

At [U25], you can talk about whatever is weighing on your mind – whether you’re already in the midst of an acute crisis or are just starting to experience distressing thoughts and feelings. The service is easily accessible and can be a first step towards seeking support.

In addition, the [U25] Information Centre offers a wealth of information on mental health, coping with crises, suicidal thoughts and sources of support. The materials provide an accessible way to find out more, get guidance and discover suitable support services.

Dropping Out or Having Doubts About Your Studies: What’s Next?

If you’re having doubts about your academic path or wondering what to do after dropping out, the “Queraufstieg” counseling network offers helpful guidance and new perspectives.

“Queraufstieg” provides information on possible steps beyond higher education, highlights alternative paths, and connects you with relevant counseling centers, companies, and support services.

Would you like professional support during your studies?

The Campus Coaching program offers students in the Department of Education the opportunity to

reflect on personal topics related to their studies, personal development, and career planning in a safe and supportive environment.

Please note: This service is exclusively for students in the Department of Education.

For more information on the service and how to get in touch, please visit the Campus Coaching website.

Are you coming from abroad and want to settle in well in Bamberg, or are you interested in studying abroad?

The International Office at the University of Bamberg offers students comprehensive advice and support on all matters related to studying in an international context. Whether you’re coming from abroad or interested in studying abroad—the team will assist you with planning your studies, integrating into campus life, handling administrative matters, and connecting you with the right resources. This will help you find your bearings, overcome challenges more easily, and make the most of your academic experience.

Information for international students at the start of the semester can be found on the International Office website here
Information for Bamberg students can be found on the International Office website here

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