Mental health in talent development at VFL Bochum

According to Dr. Karen Krause, Managing Director of the Psychotherapy Outpatient Clinic for Children and Adolescents at the FBZ, both institutions share a fundamental understanding: "We are both acutely aware of the critical importance of mental health and the necessity of nurturing it from an early age. VfL Bochum has long integrated this principle into its talent development programs." Through collaboration with the FBZ, existing initiatives will be systematically expanded and strengthened.

The partnership envisions a series of workshops and informational events for club staff, players, and their parents. Psychologists from the FBZ will provide education on mental health disorders, aiming not only to deepen understanding but also to actively dismantle stigmas associated with mental illness. Given that Bochum is also home to the German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), this initiative has the potential to serve as a pioneering model for other organizations nationwide, explains Dr. Krause: "Through this collaboration, we can help extend VfL’s approach to mental health support across Germany."

Dr. Christina Reinhardt, Chancellor of Ruhr University Bochum and a member of VfL’s Executive Board, also expressed her enthusiasm for the partnership: "Mental health is becoming an increasingly vital issue, and the FBZ stands as a beacon of excellence within RUB. I am delighted that VfL is drawing upon this outstanding expertise."

Source: FBZ News