Various studies show that student wellbeing is under pressure: students are experiencing burnout symptoms and study stress. Is the state of students’ mental health really that bad?
“We’re seeing signals from all sides, not just in research results but also from mental health services. They report that suicide is the leading cause of death in this age group, and that the number is slightly increasing.
“GPs are also telling us they’re prescribing more antidepressants to young adults. TNO carried out research into burnout and sick leave among young professionals. Among those with an academic background in particular, there’s been a clear rise in burnout-related dropouts over the years. So yes, something is definitely going on, and we need to take it seriously.
“And don’t forget, students can attend classes, go to parties, have fun, and still be deeply unhappy.”
How does the Wellbeing Week help student? Does an ice bath contribute to students’ mental health?
“Of course, a single Wellbeing Week won’t achieve much on its own, we need to take an integrated approach to student wellbeing. The Wellbeing Week serves multiple purposes: we want to raise students’ awareness of the importance of wellbeing and introduce them to different ways of working on their personal development.
“We also aim to create a sense of connection. The events strengthen the feeling of community on campus. Students meet each other, try new experiences and see that wellbeing is something the university also values. That sense of connection, that sense of belonging, contributes to both mental wellbeing and academic success.”
What would the university ideally look like when it comes to students’ mental health?
“I’d like to see a university where there’s no taboo around seeking help, and where students know where to turn.
“Wellbeing should be at the heart of education. That means it should be accessible and integrated into the study programmes. We’re currently running a pilot in collaboration with the Erasmus School of Social and Behavioural Sciences and the Erasmus MC, to integrate wellbeing into the curriculum.
“We’re developing an online platform with a broad range of options: from modules by Caring Universities, to talks with a student psychologist and sport and leadership training. At the start of the academic year, students choose from this selection. They earn credits for it, depending on the level of intensity. Some parts, like the ROOM app, are more light-hearted. Others, such as the online modules on procrastination and self-image, are more time-consuming. This allows students to create a package that fits their own development. In this way, wellbeing becomes a normal and valuable part of their education and students learn to maintain their mental health in a structured way.”
Do you believe the university is responsible for students’ mental health?
“Yes, absolutely. If you ignore the person behind the student, you’re missing opportunities. Our university wants to create societal impact. That means seeing the person behind the student. The university is also part of society, and that society doesn’t just need skilled professionals, but also resilient people. If you only train students in subject knowledge but don’t help them prepare mentally for life in society, then you’re falling short. Students need to learn how to deal with pressure, build resilience and hold their own in a complex world.”
Do you look back with pride on what you’ve achieved at EUR?
“Definitely. I’ve had more than five intense years at EUR, and I’ve come to know the university as a dynamic and pleasant organisation. I’ve really grown to love EUR.
“I’m proud that we’ve taken an integrated approach to student wellbeing. That means: no scattered interventions, but engagement across all levels of the organisation. In that respect, we’re leading the way within the academic world.
“And I’m proud of the team. We’ve put together an interdisciplinary team, with incredible passion and dedication. I’m going to miss them terribly, I know that for sure.”
