Well-being Week also at FGGA
Within FGGA, student well-being is considered to be very important. That is why, at the beginning of this academic year, the Student Support Navigator and the introductory booklet were distributed to students. During the central Well-being Week (11-15 November) in The Hague, attention will be given to this again, with various activities organised. We spoke about this with our Well-being Officer, Laura van der Plas.
What is the goal of the Well-being Week and why is it important for students?
The Well-being Week aims to raise awareness of all aspects of well-being. It focuses not only on increasing awareness around mental, physical, and social health but also on providing concrete tools that students can use. We want to help them find balance in their busy lives and show them what support is available.
What activities and workshops are scheduled for this week?
The programme is designed to promote connection and balance, offering something for everyone. From energetic workshops like yoga and RoCycle to creative activities such as portrait drawing and music bingo. In addition to relaxation, the focus is also on improving well-being, with workshops like "First Aid for Procrastination." The central well-being team has put together a diverse range of activities. In The Hague, there are also two lectures planned on climate stress and peer pressure, providing both practical and intellectual challenges for participants.
Are there any new initiatives or special events during the Well-being Week?
We often hear that students find it difficult to locate the right help. To address this, we developed the Student Support Navigator at FGGA. During the Well-being Week, we are bringing this navigator to life with a physical version in the lounge. Here, students can discover what support is available to them, not only this week but throughout the entire year.
What challenges do you see regarding student well-being, and how does this week help to address them?
One of the biggest challenges is that many students are unsure of where to turn for help. The Well-being Week helps lower this barrier by making the full range of support services visible. The physical navigator in the lounge is a great example of how we can show students what care is available year-round and how to access it.
What does the university/faculty do outside the Well-being Week to support student well-being throughout the year?
Beyond the Well-being Week, the university organises activities year-round focused on enhancing well-being. The entire support network is always ready, with trusted contacts, academic advisors, and services like Siggie for Students and Career Service, all prepared to assist students with various questions and challenges. During the eight weeks leading up to the first exam period, we have organised additional drop-in sessions with coaches from Siggie.
Do you have any tips for students to improve their well-being, both during and after the Well-being Week?
Make sure to take advantage of the support available! Coaching and guidance related to well-being and career can often be expensive, but as a student, you can access these services for free. It’s perfectly normal to seek help; almost every student needs a little support at some point. So don’t hesitate to reach out and make use of what’s available!
For an overview of all activities in Leiden and The Hague, check Student Well-Being Week 2024 - Leiden University