Spring Student Well-being Week
- Date
- Monday 1 June 2026 - Friday 5 June 2026
- Address
- Leiden and The Hague
During the Dutch Week of Mental Health (1-5 June 2026), Leiden University will be holding a spring edition of the Student Well-being Week. With inspiring workshops, relaxing activities and practical tips, we want to help you find balance, both in your studies and your daily life. By working on your well-being, improving your study skills and connecting with your fellow students, you can help increase your chances of study success.
Take a look at the programme and sign yourself up from 18 May.
In the meantime, could you do with some help with your study skills or want to learn how to deal with procrastination? Take a look at the help available on the well-being website or sign up for the monthly student well-being newsletter.
Monday 1 June
Game café (EN/NL)
Looking for a fun afternoon of games? We’ll have a selection of games ready for you, but feel free to bring your own favorites too. Whether you come with friends or on your own, it’s easy to join in and meet others along the way.
We’ll be providing, creating the perfect setting for a cosy afternoon where connection and enjoyment take centre stage.
Location: Schouwburgstraat Livingroom, Den Haag
Training: Dealing with stress (NL)
This workshop will be in Dutch, please see the Dutch description.
Procrastination Workshop (NL)
This workshop will be in Dutch, please see the Dutch description.
Walk-in hour alcohol and substance use @ Leiden (EN/NL)
If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else regarding issues such as alcohol or drug use, smoking, or topics like social media, gaming, or gambling, you can visit the free and anonymous walk-in hour of Brijder in Leiden.
Did you know that a specialist from Brijder is regularly available in Plexus? The conversation is free, anonymous, and without judgment. More information can be found on our website.
Location: Plexus Student Centre Leiden, room 0.06C, Leiden
A collaboration with: Brijder
Walk-in hour alcohol and substance use @ The Hague (EN/NL)
If you’re concerned about yourself or someone else regarding issues such as alcohol or drug use, smoking, or topics like social media, gaming, or gambling, you can visit the free and anonymous walk-in hour of Brijder in Leiden and Indigo in The Hague.
During Well-being Week, there will be a walk-in consultation hour at the POPcorner in The Hague.
Location: the Student Pavilion in Wijnhaven (ground floor), Turfmarkt 99, The Hague.
A collaboration with: Indigo Den Haag
Meditation (EN)
During this meditation hour you are invited to step away from the busyness of student life and take time for yourself. In a calm setting, you will be introduced to simple meditation practices that support relaxation, focus, and mental clarity.
No prior experience with meditation is needed. The session is accessible for everyone who is curious about what stillness and mindful presence can offer. After the session, there will be an opportunity to briefly connect with other students in a relaxed and informal setting.
Location: Rapenburg 100, Leiden
A collaboration with: Rapenburg 100
Clay Workshop (EN/NL)
In this workshop, you can try your hand at sculpting with air-drying clay. In this beginner-friendly class, you will create your own small clay projects, which you can either take home or paint together with us in the ceramic painting workshop on Friday.
If you choose to paint your project in the workshop on Friday, please sign up for both sessions. We will provide all the necessary tools and materials - you just need to bring your enthusiasm and ideas to get the Well-Being Week off to an exciting start!
Location: Common Room, Beehive, Spui, Den Haag
A collaboration with: GOSSA
Creative evening at @ease (EN/NL)
At @ease, we organize the living room evenings every first Monday of the month. Join us this Monday for a creative workshop, guided by an experienced artist from the Chaos Atelier. Free dinner will be provided!
Location: @ease Livingroom, Hooigracht 14, Leiden
A collaboration with: Stichting @ease Leiden
Aerial Yoga (EN)
Forget your yoga mat on the floor: with Aerial Yoga, you aim higher. In a large, soft hammock, you perform familiar yoga poses, but floating above the ground. The fabric supports you, challenges you, and lets you use gravity to your advantage. Because you are suspended, pressure is taken off your spine, creating a wonderfully free feeling in your back. At the same time, your core has to work hard to stay balanced. It is playful, soothing, and secretly a very good workout.
Location: USC Leiden: Body & Mind area
A collaboration with: USC
Tuesday 2 June
Sign language workshop (NL)
This workshop will be in Dutch, please see the Dutch description.
Workshop: How to find a job that suits me? (EN)
This workshop is intended for students and young alumni who want to get a better idea of what they are looking for and what are the different ways to look for it. If you have a clear idea of what you are looking for in a job, this workshop will help you identify interesting employers, make contacts, ultimately apply for a specific job and explain why this job suits you.
In the workshop “How to find a job that suits me?’ You will receive practical tips for looking for interesting employers and vacancies. We also discuss how to make valuable contacts and how you can use these contacts for your career. The use of LinkedIn is certainly also discussed.
Location: Wijnhaven 3.12A/B, Den Haag
Workshop Art & Emotion: Colour Your Inner Weather (EN/NL)
What does your inner weather look like today? In this workshop, you’ll explore your own “inner weather” in a playful and intuitive way. Using colors, shapes, and textures, you’ll express what’s going on inside. No experience is needed – it’s not about perfection, but about experimenting and discovering. All materials are provided; you just need to bring yourself!
Location: Agora, 1B01, Leiden
A collaboration with: POPcorner-FSW
Creative picknick at the park (EN/NL)
Looking for a relaxing afternoon outdoors? Join our creative picnic and combine good food with creativity and meeting new people.
Bring your favorite dish or drink to share, and something to sit on if you like. We will provide drawing materials and basic supplies such as cups, plates, and cutlery. You’re also very welcome to bring your own creative materials to work with.
Location: Van der Werff park. We’re planning for good weather. In case of bad weather, we will move to Rapenburg 100, just a 2-minute walk from Van der Werff. We’ll make sure we’re easy to spot and find in the park.
A collaboration with: Rapenburg 100
Salsa (EN/NL)
Looking for a fun way to unwind after a long day of studying? Come dance! Salsa is not only a great workout but also a perfect way to meet new people in a creative and social setting. During the lessons, you’ll dance both solo and in pairs while lively Latin music fills the room. You’ll improve your posture, coordination, and rhythm — and most importantly, have a great time!
Location: USC The Buzz at Spui, Den Haag
A collaboration with: USC
BBQ & Movie: Echte mannen huilen niet (NL)
The movie screening will be in Dutch, please see the Dutch description.
Workshop: Manage your finances (EN/NL)
Student life is more expensive than you think. Tuition fees, rent, groceries, festivals, and spontaneous nights out quickly add up, while your income is often limited. Financial stress is something many students recognize, but it often goes unspoken. Yet financial pressure can have a significant impact on your concentration, sleep, and mental health.
In this workshop, you will gain insight into your cash flows and discover where your money is quietly slipping away. You will learn how to create an overview, make smart choices, and set priorities without putting your social life on hold. The goal is not to scrutinize every euro, but to bring peace of mind - both mentally and in your bank account. So that by the end of the month, you feel in control instead of worried.
Location: HSV, Burgemeester van Karnebeeklaan 3, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Haagsche Studenten Vereeniging & Door het Geluid
Wednesday 3 June
Guided tour Hortus Botanicus (EN/NL)
Take a break and join us for a tour of the Leiden Hortus, the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands. Discover this season’s special plants, hear fun facts about the collection’s highlights, and learn about the garden’s history. Spending time outside among plants helps reduce stress and clear your mind. And the best part? Students always have free access with the LU-card!
Location: Hortus Entry, Leiden
A collaboration with: Hortus Leiden
Workshop: Dealing with loss (NL)
This workshop will be in Dutch, please see the Dutch description.
Self Defense (EN/NL)
This class helps you feel safer by learning how to respond effectively to threatening situations. You’ll practice both physical and mental techniques, including setting boundaries, saying no, escape techniques, using vulnerable points, body posture, presence, and voice.
The training boosts your confidence, so you’re less likely to panic and better able to respond in challenging situations, mentally and if necessary, physically.
Location: USC Studio 2, Leiden
A collaboration with: USC
Walk in hour: Financial support (EN/NL)
Drop by this walk-in consultation hour if you have questions about your finances. For example, questions about student finance (DUO), taxes, rent, insurance, benefits or managing your budget as a student. Staff from SHout! Leiden, a financial information point for young people in Leiden, are available to think along with you and provide practical information and advice. No appointment is needed, and you are welcome even if you are not sure where to start
Location: Plexus, 006C, Leiden
A collaboration with: SHout!
30 Seconds game Well-being (EN/NL)
Looking for a fun and low-threshold activity that goes beyond small talk? Join the 30 Seconds: Well-being Edition, developed by the well-being committee of L.V.V.S. Augustinus.
In teams, you’ll have 30 seconds to describe as many words as possible related to student life and mental well-being, inspired by the well-known game 30 Seconds. Expect plenty of laughs and a bit of healthy competition. Drop by with friends or join a team and take part!
Location: Augustinus, Rapenburg 24, Leiden
A collaboration with: Augustinus
Movie & Dialogue: Tuinhuis (EN/NL)
Join us for an inspiring film screening and open conversation about mental well-being, pressure, and connection. During this session, we will watch the short film Tuinhuis, created by Finn van den IJssel and the collective Bloeifilm.
Tuinhuis tells the story of two young people navigating stress, loneliness, and the expectations of modern society. Through a personal and relatable narrative, the film explores how mental health challenges are connected to broader societal issues, such as performance pressure, the housing crisis, and climate concerns.
After the screening, you are invited to stay for a dialogue with the filmmakers and fellow participants. Whether you come to watch, listen, or actively join the conversation, this session offers a space for reflection, connection and new insights.
Location: Spui 3B.60, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Bloeifilm
Low-stimulus workshop: Sensory-based creative session (EN)
This workshop is a low-stimulus, sensory-based creative session designed for neurodivergent students. It is structured around five sensory stations (seeing, hearing, smelling, feeling, and tasting) where participants engage with different materials and gentle prompts or reflection exercises.
The session remains flexible and non-demanding, as each participant works on their own canvas, allowing participants to exploring how different sensory stimuli interact and shape inner experience, with a focus on comfort, sensory awareness, and self-expression.
Location: Spectrumzaal, Plexus, Leiden
A collaboration with: ASP x Chaos Atelier
Movie night: community & well-being (EN)
Join for a movie night at Rapenburg100! We will watch a film together on the importance of community and well-being. We will talk and discuss it afterwards. There will be snacks and some drinks provided.
Location: Rapenburg 100, Leiden
A collaboration with: Rapenburg 100
Thursday 4 June
Creative Coffee Break (EN/NL)
Take a moment for yourself, let go of the hustle and bustle of student life, and translate what brings you relaxation into a painting. No experience is needed. It is about relaxing, being creative, and getting out of your head for a while.
Of course we’ll take care of coffee (and tea) during this creative coffee break!
Location: Sociëteit HePatho, Einthovenweg 5, left from the door, Leiden
A collaboration with: MFLS
Gardening (EN/NL)
Cats & Crochet: A Purrfect Pause (round1) (EN/NL)
Join us at the cat café for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by our friendly feline residents as you learn (or practice) the art of crochet. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned crocheter, this is the purrrfect opportunity to slow down, de-stress, and enjoy mindful creativity in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
We’ll provide yarn, hooks, and guidance — all you need to bring is yourself and maybe a few head scratches for our furry hosts.
Location: CoffeeCats, Weimarstraat 137, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Itiwana
Cats & Crochet: A Purrfect Pause (round 2) (EN/NL)
Join us at the cat café for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by our friendly feline residents as you learn (or practice) the art of crochet. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned crocheter, this is the purrrfect opportunity to slow down, de-stress, and enjoy mindful creativity in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
We’ll provide yarn, hooks, and guidance — all you need to bring is yourself and maybe a few head scratches for our furry hosts.
Location: CoffeeCats, Weimarstraat 137, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Itiwana
Rowing (EN/NL)
Always wanted to experience rowing on the waters of The Hague? This is your chance! During the rowing clinic of Pelargos, you will get to know the sport of rowing in an accessible and enjoyable way.
With guidance from experienced members, you will learn the basics of rowing, work on proper technique, and take your first strokes in the boat. No experience needed, everyone is welcome to join. After the session, there will be time to hang out, with snacks and drinks at the boathouse.
Location: Pelargos, Cruquiuskade 10, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Pelargos
Indoor Football (EN/NL)
Football at the USC is for everyone – even if you aren't on a team (yet) or just feel like playing freely. With our accessible football session, you can simply walk in and join in. No obligations, no fixed teams – just a ball, a hall, and other students who are up for playing.
Whether you play football often or just want to kick a ball around every now and then: this is the place to meet new people and get some exercise.
Location: USC, Wedstrijdhal 1, Leiden
A collaboration with: USC
Stand Up Paddling (EN/NL)
Ready for a unique experience on the water? SUP (Stand-Up Paddleboarding) is the perfect way to relax, explore your surroundings, or enjoy a full-body workout. Stand on a SUP board, move yourself forward with a paddle, and chat with others along the way.
Location: GearFreak Valkenburgsemeer
The Valkenburgse Meer is an ideal location for it: discover nature from the water. Whether you want a calm, relaxing session or a more active workout, anything is possible!
Mocktail Workshop (EN/NL)
Summer is just around the corner—and what could be better than refreshing, homemade mocktails? In this fun and interactive workshop, you’ll learn everything about mixing the most unique alcohol-free drinks. From fruity classics to surprising flavor combinations, you’ll become a true mocktail master! A perfect evening full of flavor, fun, and summer vibes!
Location: HSV, Burgemeester van Karnebeeklaan 3, Den Haag
A collaboration with: Haagsche Studenten Vereeniging
Friday 5 June
Plants & Pencils – Botanical drawing workshop (EN/NL)
Have you ever looked carefully at a plant? What shape does a leaf have? And what is the texture of a flower? In this botanical drawing workshop, you will learn to look at and draw plants, flowers and natural forms, under the guidance of two experienced artists and teachers. If you feel like spending an afternoon dreaming away and drawing, surrounded by the beautiful nature of the Hortus Botanicus in Leiden, sign up soon!
The meeting point is at the LAK studio (studio 1.44 - first floor) in the Lipsius building. Here you will receive the necessary materials after which you go to the Hortus together with the teachers. Please note: as a student, you need to bring your LU card with you to enter the Hortus for free.
Location: LAK Atelier, Studio 1.44, Leiden
A collaboration with: LAK
Hyrox HIIT Training (EN)
Do you find 'regular' fitness a bit boring sometimes, or don't know what to do? With HIIT, boredom is not an option. In this class, you complete a course along various stations. At each station, you perform a different exercise for a set amount of time. The clock is ticking, the music is pumping, and you alternate strength with cardio.
At the USC, no two HIIT classes are the same. One moment you are swinging battling ropes, the next you are jumping on a plyo box or doing lunges with a kettlebell. Because you constantly switch, your heart rate stays high and you train your entire body in record time. It is the ultimate remedy against the rut.
Location: USC Den Haag
A collaboration with: USC
Lunch lecture: Breaking mental health taboos (EN)
During this lunch lecture, we invite you to join an open conversation about mental well-being. Do you recognize certain challenges in yourself or others? What is actually considered “normal,” and what is not? And how can you take good care of your mental health, especially during stressful and busy periods?
Together, we will explore these questions and introduce you to the accessible support options available to students. A free vegetarian lunch will be provided during the session.
Location: Agora - 0B.13, Leiden
A collaboration with: @ease Leiden
Kintsugi workshop (EN)
Kintsugi is the Japanese art of mending broken objects, most commonly pottery, using glue mixed with gold. The philosophy behind this art form emphasizes highlighting cracks rather than hiding them, reflecting the idea that imperfections can be beautiful, a concept rooted in wabi-sabi.
The study association Tanuki (BA Japanese Studies) will guide you through this process by first breaking and then mending pieces of pottery. You are welcome to bring your own cups, plates, or other objects; otherwise, we will provide materials. The session offers a calm, creative space to reflect on imperfection and repair in a different way.
Location: Living Room Plexus, Leiden
A collaboration with: Tanuki
Game Cafe XL (EN/NL)
Looking for a relaxed afternoon full of games, fun, and connection? Join us at Duivelsei for an extended edition of Gamecafé XL. With over 500 games to choose from, a drink, and some snacks.
A perfect way to relax and take a break from studying. Battle your friends in a game of 30 seconds or build your own zoo while playing Ark Nova. Off course you can also sit down and chat with your friends or play a game of Mario Kart on our couch. Whether you come to win, explore new games, or just unwind: everyone is welcome.
Location: Duivelsei, Pelikaanhof 52, Leiden
A collaboration with: L.S.S.V. Het Duivelsei
Pilates (EN/NL)
In a busy world full of stress and deadlines, Pilates is your moment of focus and balance. This method, invented by Joseph Pilates, revolves around control and precision. No wild movements, but controlled exercises to the rhythm of your breathing. Everything starts from your 'powerhouse': your deep abdominal and back muscles.
The exercises are fluid and conscious. You learn to listen to your body, improve your posture, and let the energy flow again. It is the ultimate way to become physically stronger and mentally calm.
Location: USC, the Buzz at Spui, Den Haag
A collaboration with: USC
Ceramic painting (EN/NL)
This workshop is primarily intended for students who attended the Clay Workshop on Monday to offer an opportunity to decorate their clay creations. However, even if you missed the session on Monday, you are still welcome to join. We will provide ready-made ceramics that you can paint as well as all other materials needed.
Location: Common Room, Beehive, Spui, Den Haag
A collaboration with: GOSSA