Guide from erstmalreden.de
I think something is wrong with me
If something inside you feels strange, heavy, or no longer like before, you do not have to prove or name it immediately.
First orientation
In short
- What this page is about
- What you can do when you notice: I am not doing well, but I do not know whether I am allowed to seek help.
- This may fit if
- you are looking into this topic: I think something is wrong with me
- If you do just one thing
- Write down what has changed.
You do not need a finished diagnosis
Many people seek help before they know exactly what is going on. It is enough if sleep, daily life, eating, concentration, relationships, or inner calm are clearly suffering.
A first contact can be small
You can start with a family doctor, a counseling center, or a psychotherapeutic consultation (A first assessment appointment in a psychotherapeutic practice in Germany. It does not automatically mean a therapy place is available.) hour. You do not have to explain everything perfectly. One sentence is enough.
If it is acute
If you are afraid you might harm yourself or someone else, or if there is immediate danger, 112 is the right number in Germany. This page does not replace emergency help.
Updated: July 4, 2026 · Sources checked: July 4, 2026
Sources and notes
What you can do now
If you only wanted information
This guide may fit as a next step: Getting mental health support
Open articleIf you want to try first contact
Use the sentence helper or copy one short sentence. First contact does not have to be perfect.
Prepare a sentenceIf it has become urgent
Then reading more is not the priority. Open urgent help or call 112 in Germany if there is immediate danger.
Open urgent help- Write down what has changed.
- Choose one first contact.
- Use a prepared sentence if words are missing.
This page offers orientation and words for first contact. If you need counseling, therapy, or emergency help, real contact points matter.