The Frisse Gedachtes board. Photo: Frisse Gedachtes Wageningen HThe platform was launched by a group of students from Nijmegen during the corona crisis, says WUR-student Lennart Menssink (21).
‘Research shows that students’ mental health has deteriorated considerably over the past year’, Menssink says. ‘Many students suffer from motivation issues, miss social contact and are simply not feeling happy. This is why Frisse Gedachtes was launched. It is an online platform by students and for students, where students who feel lonely or unhappy can share their stories anonymously with psychology students and experience experts. The volunteers at Frisse Gedachtes have all followed an extensive training developed by psychologists. It is, however, not a treatment. But you can share your story.’ Frisse Gedachtes is now also available outside of Nijmegen, and other activities are also being offered.
Menssink studies Communications & Life Sciences in Wageningen. Next year, he aims to start a pre-master in clinical psychology. One of the Frisse Gedachtes initiators’ brother knew this and reached out to him. ‘He wanted to know whether I was interested in joining the platform. I was enthusiastic and, with a few others, we launched a Wageningen branch of the platform.’
Walks
What kinds of events does Frisse Gedachtes Wageningen organise? Menssink: recently, we organised an event on burn-outs and depressions for the members of a student association. A psychologist and an experience expert held presentations, and students could share their own experiences and ask questions.’
Frisse Gedachtes is also involved in Wageningen Walks, in collaboration with Thuis. ‘Walking together is good for students. Did you know that walking improves your memory and creativity? It also offers a unique opportunity to meet new students. We are currently promoting the activity. You can sign up on www.wageningenwalks.nl.’
You will find Frisse Gedachtes Wageningen on Instagram en Facebook. Or send an email to fgwageningen@gmail.com.
