Mental health and well-being in academia

Rebecca Meier (CERes)

"Here is some bad news: we have a mental health crisis in academia." (Kafedjiska/Heckmann/Pires et al. 2022) In recent years, various studies have shown – especially with regard to doctoral students – that researchers are exposed to a significantly higher risk of mental illness than comparable groups outside of academia. The authors cited above do not blame this on the individual predispositions of academics, but can prove that systemic factors have a relevant influence on their well-being. In this workshop, we will take a closer look at the connection between mental health and the system academia. Together, we will explore which conditions, (supposed) traditions and prevailing attitudes can affect our mental health and well-being. Further, we will get to know the concept of Slow Science to reflect on how we possibly contribute to the preservation of these structures with our own behavior and what we (as early career researchers) may do about it. Finally, participants will be encouraged to assemble a personal ‘first aid kit’ which may help face future mental health challenges in academia. If requested by the participants, the workshop offers the opportunity to share personal experiences but does not require it.