Mental Health Days 2026 – Full Program

Look forward to a diverse range of free workshops, talks, consultations, and practical sessions*. Whether you are new to these topics or would like to deepen your knowledge, all activities are open, accessible, and available without any prior knowledge or experience. We look forward to welcoming you to the Mental Health Days!

*Employees can participate in up to two offerings during working hours. Participation must be agreed upon with their manager in advance. Additional offerings can be attended outside working hours.


Kick-off event

From Failure to Success – An Evening About Setbacks, New Perspectives, and the Courage to Keep Going

  • Date: Monday, November 23, 2026, 5:30–8:00 p.m.
  • Format: Lecture & Information Fair
  • Venue: Beletage of the Museumsgesellschaft Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 3, 72074 Tübingen
  • Speaker: Stefan Lapenat

More information


Programs by Date

Mon, 23.11.26

From Failure to Success – An Evening About Setbacks, New Perspectives, and the Courage to Keep Going
17:30 – 20:00 | Lecture & Information Fair | For everyone interested I German 

Tue, 24.11.26

Experience VR! Virtual Reality in Psychosomatic Medicine

11:00–12:00, 12:00–13:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German + English 

Writing as a Source of Strength

14:00–16:00 | Workshop including guided tour | Students | German

Understanding and Coping with Anxiety Disorders 

16:00–18:00 | Lecture | Students + Employees | German

Wed, 25.11.26

TK-Stresswaage
09:00–16:00 (20 min per slot) | Consultation | Students + Employees |

Walk & Talk

14:00–14:40 | Practical Session | Students | German + English

Neurodiversity – Recognizing and Understanding Natural Diversity

14:00–15:00 | Talk | Students + Employees | German

Learning Lab: Interval Learning. Learn and write together instead of procatinating alone

14:00–18:30 | Open Workshop | Students | German + English 

United during Crises - Suicide Prevention for Young Adults

14:15–15:45 | Workshop | Students | German

Küche für Alle - Mental Health & Community

17:30–20:00 | Talk/Workshop | Students | German

Thu, 26.11.26

Relating with Climate Emotions

10:00–12:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | English

Stress-Coaching

11:00–14:30 (30 min per slot) | Consultation | Students | German 

Mentally healthy with Smartphones, Social Media, and Digital Games

12:00–13:00 | Talk | Students + Employees | German

Stretch & Relax 1 

12:15–12:45 | Practical Session | Students | German + English 

ADHD as a Variation of the Norm 

13:30–15:00 | Guest Lecture | Students | German 

Mental Health in the Workplace at the University 1

15:00–15:30 | Talk | Employees | German + English

Fri, 27.11.26

Let Go of Stress – Which Relaxation Technique Is Right for Me?

13:00–16:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German

Writing and Mental Health (Part 1)

14:00–17:00 | Seminar | Students | German 

Walk & Talk

15:00–16:30 | Practical Session | Students | German + English

Quiz Night for Doctoral Candidates and Postdocs 

16:30–20:00 | Practical Session | PhD Students + Postdocs | English

Sat, 28.11.26

Reach New Heights – Build Mental Strength through Climbing

10:00–14:00 | Practical Session | Students | German 

Relax your mind - Build Mental Strength through Meditation

10:00 - 11:30 I Practical Session | Students | German 

To the Point – Build Mental Strength Through Archery

11:00 - 14:00 I Practical Session | Students | German 

Writing und Mental Health (Part 2)

11:00–17:00 | Seminar | Students | German

Head Up – Build Mental Strength Through Martial Arts

12:00-13:30 I Practical Session | Students | German 

Sun, 29.11.26

Walk & Draw

11:00–13:00 | Practical Session | Students | German

Writing and Mental Health (Part 3)

11:00–15:00 | Seminar | Students | German

Mon, 30.11.26

Orthorexia, food noise and more – is it still “healthy” or already “unhealthy”?

10:00–12:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German

Effective stress management techniques for everyday life (and studying)

13:00–16:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German

From Puberty to Menopause: Women’s Mental Health Across the Lifespan

16:00–18:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees I German + English

Stress-Coaching

16:00–18:00 (30 min per slot) | Consultation | Students | English

Mental Health in Teacher Education – We Don’t Talk About It!…? 

18:00–20:00 | Workshop | Students | German

Tue, 01.12.26

Mental Health in the Workplace at the University 2

09:00–09:30 | Talk | Employees | German + English

Mentally Fit in University Life – A Workshop for Resilience and Well-Being

14:00–16:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German

Performing well when it matters

18:15–19:45 | Talk | Students | German

Wed, 02.12.26

Mental Health of Family Caregivers

11:30–13:00 | Workshop and Moderated Discussion | Students + Employees | German

Neurodiversity – Challenges and Opportunities in Everyday Life

14:00–16:00 | Workshop | Students + Employees | German

Stretch & Relax 2

16:15–16:45 | Practical Session | Students | German + English

Ways Out of Depression – Innovative and Multimodal Treatment Approaches

18:00–19:30 | Talk | Students + Employees | German

Studi-Dinner 

18:00–23:00 | Practical Session | Students | German + English


Programs by Topic

UNDERSTAND

Discover.Learn.Apply.

ADHD as a Variation of the Norm

Studying with ADHD comes with particular challenges, but it also has advantages. What should you know about ADHD in order to make good use of its advantages and keep the disadvantages to a minimum? Why is learning sometimes difficult, while at other times it suddenly seems surprisingly easy? The talk uses clear, illustrative models to provide an understandable picture of how ADHD works. It addresses typical manifestations as well as common related topics such as self-esteem, hyperfocus, and psychological consequences. In addition to practical models, strategies will be presented to effectively address learning, exams, orientation, and self-management. Finally, there will be time for a Q&A session.

  • Format: Guest lecture
  • For: Interested students from all disciplines and other interested participants
  • Date: Thu., 26. November 2026, 13:30–15:00
  • Location: Online; anonymous participation is possible
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Counseling Service
  • Speaker: Manuel Zeberli, federally recognized specialist psychologist for psychotherapy (FSP), has worked as a psychotherapist since 2009 (therapy, teaching therapy, supervision, coaching) and as a group trainer for prospective psychotherapists. In recent years, he has specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of ADHD in adults.
  • Registration: Not required; simply join the event.

The access details will be uploaded here on the day of the event. 

Experience VR! Virtual Reality in Psychosomatic Medicine

Experience Virtual Reality (VR) up close! After a brief introduction to the use of VR in psychosomatic medicine, you will have the opportunity to try out a VR headset yourself. In this 60-minute workshop, you will learn about current research projects at Tübingen University Hospital investigating VR as a complementary treatment for chronic pain, persistent somatic symptoms, and fatigue. The event combines fascinating insights into research with hands-on experience of the technology.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees who are curious about VR and its applications in medicine
  • Date: Tue., 24 November 2026, 11:00-12:00 or 12:00-13:00
  • Location: Psychosomatic Day Clinic Health Center, Group Room, Level 6, Osianderstraße 5, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Tübingen University Hospital – Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy (Internal Medicine VI), German Center for Mental Health (DZPG)
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

From Puberty to Menopause: Women’s Mental Health Across the Lifespan

From puberty to menopause, hormonal changes accompany women throughout their lives and can also affect mental health. The talk provides an accessible overview of the current state of research and explores the connections between hormonal changes and mental well-being.

Interactive topic tables will then offer an opportunity to explore different stages of life and topics such as puberty, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and abortion, the postpartum period, and menopause, ask questions, and engage in conversation with doctoral researchers from the International Research Training Group 2804 “Women’s Mental Health.”

An additional topic table focuses on (sexualized) violence against women. We are aware that engaging with this topic can be distressing. We therefore encourage you to be mindful of your own boundaries and decide for yourself whether and to what extent you would like to engage with the topic. You are, of course, also welcome to skip this table. The talk itself does not address (sexualized) violence.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees of all genders and age groups who are interested in women’s mental health across the lifespan
  • Date: Mon., 30 November 2026, 16:00-18:00
  • Location: University Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, 1st floor, Auditorium, Calwerstraße 14, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German and English
  • Organizing unit: IRTG Women’s Mental Health, Tübingen University Hospital, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, German Center for Mental Health (DZPG)
  • Speaker: Cosima Weidinger
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Mental Health in Teacher Education – We Don’t Talk About It!…?

Your own mental health influences how challenges in teacher education and in the teaching profession are perceived and managed. At the same time, teacher education students often experience discussing mental health topics as a (perceived) taboo. In this online event, we want to change that and will therefore discuss the following together:

- Why is “mental health” an important topic in teacher education?
- What helps me stay mentally healthy?
- How can I recognize warning signs?
- Where can I find support services within and outside the university?
- What holds me back?

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Teacher education students (B.Ed./M.Ed.)
  • Date: Mon., 30 November 2026, 18:00-20:00
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Tübingen School of Education
  • Speaker: Aline Christ
  • Registration: Required (*Participation can be anonymous; registration is only required to receive the access details)

Reserve your spot here!

Mental Health in the Workplace at the University

What does Mental Health Literacy (= mental health literacy) mean, and how can we use this knowledge in the workplace? This talk provides concise, practical insights into mental health and how to deal with mental health challenges in the workplace. We will also introduce the support services offered by the Occupational Health Service. Afterwards, there will be time for your questions.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Employees
  • Dates:
    • Thu., 26 November 2026, 15:00-15:30 or
    • Tue., 1 December 2026, 09:00-09:30
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German (We are happy to answer questions in English by email after the event at ambulanz.arbeitsmedizinspam prevention@med.uni-tuebingen.de)
  • Organizing unit: Occupational Health Service, Institute of Occupational and Social Medicine and Health Services Research
  • Speaker: Dr. med. Franziska M. Göldner
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Mentally healthy with Smartphones, Social Media, and Digital Games

Digital media are ubiquitous nowadays. For many of us, the smartphone is already what wakes us up in the morning, followed by a quick social media update. It accompanies us through the digital train ticket and working on tablets and computers, all the way to relaxing with a series or gaming in the evening.

However, our digital everyday lives can also come with digital stress: from the constant pressure to respond to messages, likes, or posts, to temptations in digital games and endless consumption of series and videos. More recently, AI companions have also begun encouraging us to shift social interactions into the world of artificial intelligence.

The talk explores the factors that make digital media so engaging, the effectiveness of digital detox, and strategies for healthy digital media use.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Interested students and employees
  • Date: Thu., 26 November 2026, 12:00-13:00
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, Tübingen University Hospital; Internet Use Disorders Research Group, German Center for Mental Health (DZPG)
  • Speaker: Dr. Isabel Brandhorst
  • Registration: Not required—simply join the event!

Access details

Neurodiversity – Recognizing and Understanding Natural Diversity

Neurodiversity describes the natural diversity of human brains and encompasses different ways of perceiving, thinking, learning, and processing information. These include, among others, autism, ADHD, high sensitivity, dyslexia, and dyscalculia. The talk provides an accessible introduction to the topic, offers insights into different neurodivergent perspectives, and explores possible challenges in everyday student life and at work. It presents current findings from research and practice and promotes an understanding of neurocognitive diversity, as well as an appreciative and inclusive approach to neurodiversity.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Students and employees—especially neurodivergent people, as well as anyone interested in neurodiversity who would like to learn more about different ways of perceiving, thinking, and learning
  • Date: Wed., 25 November 2026, 14:00-15:00
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen University Hospital
  • Speaker: Michelle Müllner (M.Sc. Psychology, Psychological Psychotherapist)
  • Registration: Not required—simply join the event!

Access details

Orthorexia, food noise and more – is it still “healthy” or already “unhealthy”?

Especially when it comes to nutrition and eating behavior, the boundaries between healthy behavior and problematic patterns are becoming increasingly blurred. The workshop explores current phenomena and trends in eating and nutrition from a psychological perspective. Together, we will discuss when health-conscious behavior can develop into burdensome or problematic dynamics. The aim is to develop a nuanced understanding and explore impulses for one’s own approach to food and eating behavior.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees interested in nutrition and healthy eating behavior
  • Date: Mon., 30 November 2026, 10:00-12:00
  • Location: Department of Psychosomatic Medicine & Psychotherapy, Seminar Room, Research Area (1st floor), Osianderstraße 5, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Psychosomatic Medicine & Psychotherapy, German Center for Mental Health (DZPG)
  • Speakers: Prof. Dr. Katrin Giel, Dr. Simone Behrens, Louise Schmidt, M.Sc.
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Performing well when it matters

Exams, presentations, performances, or competitions – situations involving performance can be challenging and place high demands on your concentration and mental strength. To a certain extent, this is normal and reflects the desire to perform well in a given situation (when it really matters...). However, once nervousness and tension reach a certain intensity, performance can suffer, and it may become difficult to perform at a level that matches your actual abilities. In extreme cases, very intense anxiety and stress can even cause performance to completely break down (a blackout).

The talk explains why such situations are often experienced as stressful and which psychological processes play a role. It also presents strategies and techniques that can help you cope better with performance pressure and deliberately access your abilities when it matters.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Students who want to learn how to cope better with performance pressure
  • Date: Tue., 1 December 2026, 18:15-19:45
  • Location: Neue Aula, Room 236, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Studierendenwerk
  • Speaker: Dipl.-Psych. Stefan Balz
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

Understanding and Coping with Anxiety Disorders

Learn what distinguishes anxiety from an anxiety disorder, how anxiety disorders are diagnosed, and what treatment options are available to those affected. The interactive talk explains the most important basics in an accessible way and provides insights into current findings from research and practice. Afterwards, you will have the opportunity to ask your questions in a Q&A session and engage in discussion with the group.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Students and employees who experience anxiety in everyday life or have an anxiety disorder and/or are interested in the topic and would like to learn more about causes, diagnosis, and treatment options
  • Date: Tue., 24 November 2026, 16:00-18:00
  • Location: Neue Aula, S236, Geschwister-Scholl-Platz, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University Hospital
  • Speaker: Dr. phil. Thomas Dresler, Dipl.-Psych.
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

United during Crises - Suicide Prevention for Young Adults

Learn how suicidal ideation can be recognized, which warning signs may indicate a crisis, and how you can provide supportive help to people affected. The workshop explains the most important basics in an accessible way, builds confidence in dealing with the topic of suicidality, and provides information about appropriate support and assistance services. It also offers a space for open and safe discussion.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students who are interested in the topic of suicidality and would like to build confidence in supporting people experiencing mental health crises
  • Date: Wed., 25 November 2026, 14:15-15:45
  • Location: University Library (Ammerbau), Training Room, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Youth-Life-Line
  • Speaker: Markus Urban
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

Ways Out of Depression – Innovative and Multimodal Treatment Approaches

Depression is very common and can often be a severe illness. Although effective pharmacological, psychotherapeutic, and biological treatment options are available, they are often not used consistently enough, which can result in prolonged courses of illness that tend to become chronic. In addition to covering the basics of the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of depression, the talk will present innovative, multimodal treatment approaches that can also offer promising prospects in complex cases.

  • Format: Talk
  • For: Students and employees, as well as people personally affected by difficult-to-treat depression who would like to learn more about the topic and current treatment options
  • Date: Wed., 2 December 2026, 18:00-19:30
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, German Center for Mental Health (DZPG)
  • Speaker: Prof. Dr. Andreas Fallgatter
  • Registration: Not required—simply join the event! Anonymous participation is possible.

Access details


GROW

Reflect.Develop.Change.

Effective stress management techniques for everyday life (and studying)

In this workshop, you will acquire sound knowledge of instrumental, mental, and regenerative stress management techniques. Together, we will analyze personal stress factors, identify and correct unhelpful appraisal patterns, and learn methods for specifically reducing physical stress responses. Use this workshop to sustainably strengthen your resilience and face the challenges of university life with noticeably greater ease and composure.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees experiencing stress who would like to learn practical strategies for coping with stress
  • Date: Mon., 30 November 2026, 13:00-16:00
  • Location: Alte HNO, Room 404, Silcherstraße 5, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Institute of Medical Psychology
  • Speaker: Dr. Anna Dubischar-Kivec
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

From Failure to Success – An Evening about Setbacks, new Perspectives, and the Courage to keep going

You study for weeks for an exam and still don’t pass. You work on a research project for months, only to end up with no clear results. You carefully plan a project and still fall behind schedule. Failure has many faces. It is part of everyday student and working life—and it rarely feels good.

Usually, the search for someone to blame follows: others or yourself. The inner critic gets loud. But what if failure isn’t a judgment, but feedback? A step in the process rather than the end?

That is exactly what the opening event of the Mental Health Days is all about. Multiple entrepreneur (because he has lost two companies), improv theater performer (where failure is always part of being on stage), and expert on error culture Stefan Lapenat will open the evening with his keynote. He will show why failure is not the opposite of success, but part of it. You will get ideas for dealing with setbacks, quieting your inner critic, and gaining new perspectives for your personal and professional journey. Interactive, humorous—and without downplaying the issue.

Afterwards, an interactive experience all about failure awaits you. At activity and information booths, you will learn about the university’s support services. You will find out who you can turn to when things don’t go as planned. Come talk to others, try things out, and take away new impulses.

Whether it’s your studies, doctoral research, research, teaching, or everyday working life: sooner or later, we all fail. What you make of it is up to you.

  • Format: Talk / Information Fair
  • For: Everyone interested (including non-university members)
  • Date: Mon., 23 November 2026, 17:30-20:00 (doors open at 17:30, event starts at 18:00)
  • Location: Museumsgesellschaft Tübingen, Wilhelmstraße 3, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance, Workplace Health Management
  • Speaker: Stefan Lapenat, Managing Director of the HRperformance Institute

    Stefan Lapenat is an improv theater performer, consultant, and keynote speaker specializing in error culture and leadership culture. He heads the HRperformance Institute in Freiburg and has been working on error culture in organizations for many years. More than twenty years of improv theater experience shape his presentation style: interactive, humorous, and featuring vivid examples rather than a traditional lecture. In 2019, he received the Golden Winner Award at the International Speaker Slam in New York. His message for the evening: understand failure as feedback—in your studies, in research, and in your professional life.

    What can you expect from the keynote? Here’s a first little preview: Watch the video.

  • Registration: Recommended. Last-minute attendees are also very welcome and can simply drop by (subject to available places)!

Reserve your spot here!

Event note: Help shape the program of the opening event and share your experiences with failure—your anonymized contributions will be displayed at the event. You can share your experiences here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/e/rqheq33bVT. Thank you!

 

Learning Lab: Interval Learning. Learn and write together instead of procatinating alone

Do you tend to put off studying and do something else instead (= procrastinate)—and/or would you like more community and interaction while studying?

In this open workshop on the interval learning method, you divide your study tasks into focused work intervals, helping you increase your motivation and effectiveness and strengthen your sense of making progress. New this time is a reflective introduction, giving you a moment to consciously check in with your current mental and physical state and take it into account if needed.

If you wish, you can also spontaneously make use of a consultation offered by the Diversity-Oriented Writing Center. This gives you the opportunity to receive direct support with any questions or challenges related to writing.

Together with other students, you will work in a focused and supportive atmosphere. The workshop helps you counteract feelings of loneliness when studying and procrastinating, and to shape your study time together with others in an active and purposeful way.

You can join or leave at any point—just drop by!

  • Format: Open workshop
  • For: Students from all disciplines who tend to procrastinate when studying and/or would like more community while studying
  • Date: Wed., 25 November 2026, 14:00-18:30
  • Location: University Library (Bonatzbau), Historic Reading Room, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Central Student Advisory Service, Diversity-Oriented Writing Center
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

Let Go of Stress – Which Relaxation Technique Is Right for Me?

Whether PMR, autogenic training, or meditation—the jungle of relaxation techniques can quickly become overwhelming. This interactive workshop provides an accessible introduction to the psychophysiological foundations of stress and explores how different relaxation techniques can affect the body and well-being. Together, participants will try out a range of methods in practice so that you can find out which evidence-based technique best suits you. The workshop supports you in strengthening your stress management skills and developing an effective way of dealing with everyday stress.

What to bring: A yoga/exercise mat, as many exercises will be performed lying down.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees experiencing stress who would like to learn practical strategies for managing stress in everyday life
  • Date: Fri., 27 November 2026, 13:00-16:00
  • Location: Alte HNO, Room 404, Silcherstraße 5, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Institute of Medical Psychology
  • Speaker: Dr. Anna Dubischar-Kivec
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Mentally fit in University Life – A Workshop for Resilience and Well-Being

How can you strengthen your personal resources to enhance your well-being? In this interactive workshop, you will learn evidence-based strategies for building resilience. Short theoretical sessions alternate with practical exercises and reflection. Among other things, you will explore stress management, mindfulness, self-care, and constructive ways of dealing with stressful situations.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees who would like to strengthen their resilience
  • Date: Tue., 1 December 2026, 14:00-16:00
  • Location: Department of Psychosomatic Medicine & Psychotherapy, Vita Building, Osianderstraße 5, 2nd floor, Room 101, 72076 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Tübingen University Hospital
  • Speaker: PD Dr. Rebecca Erschens
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Mental Health of Family Caregivers

People who care for loved ones—whether children or adults—often carry a great deal of responsibility and face a wide range of challenges. Supporting people with mental health conditions, dementia, or chronic physical illnesses can create a deep sense of connection, but can also be emotionally and practically demanding.

In our introductory workshop, we combine research-based input with personal and creative exchange on the mental health of family caregivers. We come together, listen to one another, and, if we wish, share our own experiences and explore the topic of mental health through artistic and creative activities. Openness, mutual exchange, and new perspectives are at the heart of the workshop.

  • Format: Workshop and facilitated discussion
  • For: Students and employees who are family caregivers
  • Date: Wed., 2 December 2026, 11:30-13:00
  • Location: To be announced
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen University Hospital, Center for Media Competence
  • Speaker: Dr. Lydia Kogler
  • Registration: Required

Registration is by email to lydia.koglerspam prevention@med.uni-tuebingen.de.

Neurodiversity – Challenges and Opportunities in Everyday Life

The workshop provides an opportunity for an in-depth and interactive exploration of neurodiversity (= the natural diversity of human brains and, consequently, different ways of perceiving the world, thinking, learning, communicating, and processing information).

The focus is on both possible challenges in everyday student life and the opportunities and resources associated with different ways of perceiving, thinking, and learning. Together, participants will reflect on barriers, support needs, and ways of creating study programs and learning environments that are sensitive to neurodiversity.

The aim of the workshop is to broaden perspectives, exchange experiences, and gain new ideas for an appreciative approach to neurocognitive diversity. Attending the preceding talk is helpful but not a prerequisite.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees—especially neurodivergent people, as well as anyone interested in neurodiversity who would like to learn more about dealing with neurodiversity in everyday university life
  • Date: Wed., 2 December 2026, 14:00-16:00
  • Location: University Library (Ammerbau), Training Room, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Tübingen University Hospital
  • Speaker: Michelle Müllner (M.Sc. Psychology, licensed psychological psychotherapist)
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Relating with Climate Emotions

Climate change can trigger a wide range of emotions, such as concern, grief, anger, hope, or helplessness. The workshop provides an accessible introduction to the topic of climate emotions and explores how people may respond emotionally to the climate crisis. Using interactive methods, you will reflect on your own feelings, exchange experiences with others, and gain ideas for constructively dealing with distressing emotions. The workshop provides space for reflection, exchange, and new perspectives.

  • Format: Workshop
  • For: Students and employees who would like to reflect on their climate emotions and develop constructive ways of dealing with them
  • Date: Thu., 26 November 2026, 10:00-12:00
  • Location: University Library (Ammerbau), Training Room, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: English
  • Organizing unit: International Centre for Ethics in the Sciences and Humanities (IZEW)
  • Speaker: Vanessa Weihgold
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Stress-Coaching

Do you often feel stressed in your everyday student life? In the 30-minute one-on-one consultation “Active Against Stress”, you will receive individual support. In a confidential atmosphere, you will learn practical methods for reducing stress, such as relaxation and mindfulness exercises tailored to your personal needs. The aim is to strengthen your resources and provide you with useful tools to help you stay calmer and more focused during your studies.

The one-on-one consultations are led by experienced relaxation trainers. If needed, they can also provide information about further support and counseling services.

  • Format: Consultation
  • For: Students experiencing stress, difficulties concentrating, and/or exam anxiety
  • Dates:
    • Thu., 26 November 2026, 11:00-14:30 (German), Note: 6 spots available
    • Mon., 30 November 2026, 16:00-18:00 (English), Note: 4 spots available
    • Online appointments by individual arrangement
  • Locations:
    • Schlatterhaus, Österbergstraße 2, 72074 Tübingen (German)
    • ESSC Infopoint of the International Office, Wilhelmstraße 9, Room 19, 72074 Tübingen (English)
    • Online
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

TK-Stresswaage

Do you often feel stressed in your everyday student or working life? In this 20-minute online consultation, you will receive individual support. Together, we will look at your personal stress factors and resources. A “stress scale” makes it easier to see what is weighing you down and what gives you strength. Based on this, we will develop practical strategies that fit you and your situation.

  • Format: Consultation
  • For: Students and employees who would like to better understand their personal stress factors, identify individual sources of strain, and learn practical strategies for dealing with stress in a healthy way
  • Date: Wed., 25 November 2026, 09:00-16:00
  • Location: Online
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Techniker
  • Registration: Required

Reserve your spot here!

Writing and Mental Health

Discover how creative and self-care writing can contribute to inner clarity, mental stability, and resilience. The workshop introduces different approaches to writing—from free writing to reflective and creative writing exercises—and invites you to explore your own thoughts and feelings. Selected texts and poems will serve as prompts, and methods inspired, among other things, by trauma therapy will be introduced. In small groups, there will be opportunities to exchange ideas. You can also choose between different writing prompts and find your own approach to writing. The workshop can be credited with 3 ECTS as part of the transferable skills program.

  • Format: Workshop/seminar
  • For: Students with and without prior writing experience who would like to explore the significance of writing and poetry in the context of mental health
  • Dates:
    • Fri., 27 November 2026, 14:00-17:00 and
    • Sat., 28 November 2026, 11:00-17:00 and
    • Sun., 29 November 2026, 11:00-15:00
  • Location: Hölderlinturm Museum, Bursagasse 6, 72070 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing units: Studio Literature and Theatre Tübingen, Hölderlinturm Museum
  • Speaker: Birgit Kreipe, poet and psychologist
  • Registration: Required

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Event tip: Orakel des Inneren – Writing and mental health. Reading with author and psychologist Birgit Kreipe

On Sat., 28 November at 19:00, Birgit Kreipe, the workshop speaker, will read from her 2021 poetry collection “aire,” published by Kookbooks Verlag. The poems explore inner and outer upheavals—such as illness, moving, and loss—and are interested in disruptive or gradual changes: the successive integration of sensory impressions, the brewing of feelings, traces of thoughts and memories, as well as the specific restlessness these processes trigger—and their leaps and transformations into new experiences. Location: Hölderlinturm, Bursagasse 6. More information

Writing as a Source of Strength

During a guided tour of the special exhibition “Writing for the Soul – From Hölderlin to the Present Day,” you will discover different forms of writing between self-reflection, creative expression, and mental well-being. The exhibition spans the arc from Hölderlin’s tower poems and academic perspectives to contemporary forms of therapeutic and creative literary writing, inviting you to reflect on the significance of writing in your own life.

The subsequent writing workshop builds on impressions from the exhibition and explores them in greater depth using short writing prompts. What resonated with me? Which thoughts or questions have stayed with me? Which impulse would I like to explore through writing?

The focus is not on “correct” writing, but on trying things out and exploring. The writing prompts provide space for personal reflection, creative associations, and new perspectives. Those who wish to can share their thoughts and texts with others and engage in discussion. No prior knowledge is required.

  • Format: Workshop including guided tour
  • For: Students who would like to explore creative writing in the context of mental health
  • Date: Tue., 24 November 2026, 14:00-16:00
  • Location: Hölderlinturm Museum, Bursagasse 6, 72070 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Hölderlinturm Museum
  • Speaker: Sabrina Rosalie Rösch
  • Registration: Required

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EXPERIENCE

Move.Create.Explore.

Reach New Heights – Build Mental Strength through Climbing

Studying requires perseverance and self-confidence, especially when things aren’t going well. Climbing can help strengthen these skills! In this course, you will learn the basics of climbing and discover how to tackle challenges step by step and develop greater confidence in your own abilities.

Note: The course duration does not consist exclusively of climbing time; a significant portion is dedicated to learning about equipment as well as technique and safety training.

What to bring: Sportswear and regular indoor sports shoes

  • Format: Practical course
  • For: Students with no prior climbing experience who are looking for new ways to deal with pressure and challenges in everyday student life
  • Date: Sat., 28 November 2026, 10:00-14:00
  • Location: University Sports Hall, Climbing Tower, Alberstraße 27, 72070 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance, University Sports
  • Speakers: Angelika Gröner & Ben Brückner
  • Registration: Required

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Relax your mind - Build Mental Strength through Meditation

Studying requires taking good care of yourself, especially when there are lots of tasks and appointments to juggle. Meditation offers a way to strengthen this ability. This course provides an introduction to the world of meditation. You will learn three basic meditation techniques and practice them together in a group. The session begins by focusing on the breath, followed by “open awareness.” Finally, meditation is practiced while walking. You can integrate these techniques into your everyday life to help clear your mind.

What to bring: Comfortable sportswear. You may optionally bring your own sitting mat or cushion (yoga mats, yoga blocks, and chairs are available).

  • Format: Practical course
  • For: Students who would like to try out different ways of relaxing
  • Date: Sat., 28 November 2026, 10:00-11:30
  • Location: University Sports Hall, Alberstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance, University Sports
  • Speaker: Philipp Wagner
  • Registration: Required

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Stretch & Relax

Take a short break from your everyday study routine. At Stretch & Relax, you can expect gentle mobility and stretching exercises in a relaxed atmosphere. The exercises help release tension, become more aware of your body, and recharge your energy.

No pressure to perform—simply arrive, breathe, and move. Regular physical activity and mindful breaks can help reduce stress, clear your mind, and support your ability to concentrate. This creates space for greater calm, well-being, and mental clarity, allowing you to return to studying more focused and receptive.

  • Format: Practical session
  • For: Students who would like to get moving and find relaxation in their everyday student life
  • Dates:
    • Thu., 26 November 2026, 12:15-12:45 or
    • Wed., 2 December 2026, 16:15-16:45
  • Location: University Library (Ammerbau), Training Room, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance, University Sports
  • Speakers: Lina Feldt, Lisa Grünewald
  • Registration: Recommended. Last-minute attendees are welcome if places are available!

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To the Point – Build Mental Strength Through Archery

Studying requires concentration and the ability to stay calm, especially when things get stressful. Archery can help strengthen these skills! In this outdoor course, you will learn the basics of archery and discover how to consciously focus, block out distractions, and stay centered.

What to bring: Weatherproof, close-fitting clothing and sturdy outdoor shoes.

  • Format: Practical session
  • For: Students with no prior archery experience who are looking for new ways to deal with stress and distractions in everyday student life
  • Date: Sat., 28 November 2026, 11:00-14:00
  • Location: University Sports Hall, Rasenfeld, Alberstraße 27, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance, University Sports Tübingen
  • Speaker: Antje Lange
  • Registration: Required

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Walk&Draw

Together, we will walk through Tübingen and draw at various locations. In a relaxed atmosphere, you can look forward to a variety of drawing exercises. Along the way, you will meet new people, have the opportunity to connect and exchange ideas creatively, and simply clear your head for a while. Our team places great importance on supporting you whenever needed.

What to bring: A pencil (ideally 4B and 6B, or whatever you have at home), a black fineliner (whether an ink pen or standard fineliner), pencil sharpener, eraser, and something to sit on (e.g., a seat cushion or an old sweater).

  • Format: Practical session
  • For: Students, with or without prior drawing experience, who are looking for a creative break from everyday student life
  • Date: Sun., 29 November 2026, 11:00-13:00
  • Meeting point: Taubenhaus (Neckar Bridge)
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance
  • Speaker: Elodie Cruz
  • Registration: Required

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EXCHANGE

Talk.Meet.Connect.

Küche Für Alle - Mental Health & Community

Eating together, chatting, and having a good time: Especially in everyday student life, it is good to take a break, meet new people, and connect with others.

As part of the Mental Health Days, we are bringing you together around one table and inviting you to a special KüfA*. The event combines a 90-minute talk (mental health in university life and food as community building) with a shared dinner. We look forward to coming together around the table with you, meeting new people, and having a great time together!

*KüfA stands for “Küche für alle” (“Kitchen for everyone”): The food is already prepared. Just drop by and enjoy a meal together.

  • Format: Talk followed by a free dinner
  • For: Students interested in mental health topics, looking to connect with others—and with an appetite
  • Date: Wed., 25 November 2026, 17:30-ca. 20:00 (17:30 talk, ca. 19:00 shared dinner)
  • Location: Schlatterhaus, Österbergstraße 2, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German
  • Organizing unit: Social Affairs Working Group of the Constituted Student Body of Tübingen
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

Quiz Night for Doctoral Candidates and Postdocs

Need a break from research? As part of the Mental Health Days, we warmly invite all doctoral candidates and postdocs to join us for a relaxed quiz night – pub quiz style. This is a great way to connect with others, take a break from the demands of research, and support mental well-being through social interaction and shared enjoyment.

What to bring: If you like, you can bring snacks (ideally to share) and drinks.

  • Format: Practical activity
  • For: Doctoral researchers and postdocs who would like to enjoy a sociable evening
  • Date: Fri., 27 November 2026; doors open from 16:30, quiz starts at 17:00, ends around 19:30
  • Location: Lothar Meyer Building, Room 301 (2nd floor), Wilhelmstr. 56, 72074 Tübingen
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Graduate Academy
  • Registration: Required

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Studi-Dinner

Looking for an unforgettable evening with good food and new people? As part of the Studi-Dinner, you will form a fixed team of two and prepare a randomly assigned course (starter, main course, or dessert) at home for two other teams. You decide for yourself what exactly you want to cook. You will enjoy the other two courses at the homes of other teams. New teams come together for each course, so over the course of the evening, you will meet 12 new people. To wrap up the evening, everyone will meet for the after-party.

  • Format: Practical activity
  • For: Students who would like to meet new people
  • Date: Wed., 2 December 2026, 18:00-ca. 23:00 + after-party
  • Location: Tübingen
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance
  • Registration: Required

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Walk&Talk

In small groups, we will go for a walk together in Tübingen. This is an opportunity to connect in a relaxed, informal atmosphere and meet new people. Walk & Talk is confidentially led by students. If you want, you can talk to them about anything—but you don’t have to. Either way, they will be there to listen to you, both during Walk & Talk and beyond.

  • Format: Practical activity
  • For: Students who would like to get out, switch off, and connect with others
  • Dates and meeting points:
    • Wed., 25 November 2026, 14:00-14:40 (outside the main entrance of the University Library, Wilhelmstraße 32, 72074 Tübingen)
    • Fri., 27 November 2026, 15:00-16:30 (Taubenhaus near the Neckar Bridge)
  • Language: German, English
  • Organizing unit: Student Health Management BeTaBalance
  • Facilitators: Students (MHFA Team)
  • Registration: Not required—just come along!

Organization

The Mental Health Days 2026 are organized by Student Health Management BeTaBalance and Occupational Health Management. If you have any questions, the organizing team will be happy to help: