Health@FSW: From loving-kindness meditation to selective mutism
Can kindness training increase political tolerance? And how can we better support children with selective mutism? During the Health@FSW knowledge market and exchange event on 26 May 2025, researchers from all five institutes showcased how their work aligns with the faculty’s research strategy and contributes to a healthier society.
Nearly one hundred attendees engaged in discussions about ongoing research and opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of health and wellbeing. With research pitches and a vibrant market featuring posters and interactive laptop presentations on a wide range of topics – from lifestyle interventions to the impact of socioeconomic status on health – the two-hour event was a resounding success.
Interdisciplinary collaboration
In addition to networking and learning about each other’s work during the information market, participants listened to a series of lightning talks. Dean Sarah de Rijcke opened the event by emphasising the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, both within the faculty and with external partners. Andrea Evers, the faculty coordinator for the Health theme, gave an overview of the developments in health-related research and education at our faculty in recent years – from founding the Leiden Healthy Society Centre with the municipality and social partners, to launching the new interdisciplinary LDE minor Co-creating a Healthy Society.
From mental health to social inequality
To further structure the faculty’s health-related research, three key themes have been identified: mental health across the lifespan, health promotion and resilience, and social inequality of health. These were introduced by theme coordinators Renate Buisman (Education and Child Studies), Sandra van Dijk (Psychology), and Annemarie Samuels (Cultural Anthropology and Development Sociology).
The audience listened attentively to ten excellent research pitches in which FSW researchers each had one minute to present the core message of their project or initiative. From studies on the psychological impact of poverty to interventions for adolescents struggling with low mood – the pitches offered an impressive cross-section of FSW’s health-related research.
Building a healthy society together
The Health@FSW event clearly demonstrated the richness and diversity of health research within the faculty – from mental health to social inequality and resilience. But it was more than just a knowledge market: it was an invitation to connect, collaborate, and spark new partnerships between institutes. By getting to know one another and engaging in meaningful conversations, we are building a strong, interdisciplinary community around health and wellbeing at FSW. This afternoon laid the groundwork for sustainable collaborations, innovative research initiatives, and a shared ambition: contributing to a healthy society, both within and beyond the university.
An inspiring afternoon that encouraged collaboration – I’m excited to see what comes next! – Health@FSW participant
