My name is Madeline Becker, and I am the IAA’s certified Mental Health First Aider (Ersthelferin für Mentale Gesundheit).

What does a Mental Health First Aider do?
I am here to support students who are experiencing mental health problems or crises. In my training as an MHFA, I learned to recognise mental health issues, provide information about available support services, and offer initial assistance until professional help can be arranged.

Please note that I am not a therapist—I cannot diagnose mental health conditions or provide long-term therapy. My role is to serve as a first, low-threshold point of contact and support you to get professional help.

When should you come to me?
Whenever you feel the need to talk. You do not need to have a diagnosis or fully understand what’s going on. If you are struggling with test anxiety, having trouble getting out of bed in the morning, feeling unmotivated with your university work, dealing with loneliness, worrying about the future, or suspect that you might be experiencing a crisis but don’t know where to get help my door is open.

How can you contact me?

You are welcome to email me at madeline.becker@uni-rostock.de. However, these topics are often easier to discuss in person. I hold regular office hours during the semester and more flexible hours during the semester break (you find the specific dates on my website).