Mental Health & Well-being
We know it’s not always easy to talk about your mental or emotional well-being. But from experience, we know that reaching out can really help. Reaching out earlier makes it easier to find the support you need. If something’s going on, we highly encourage you to contact a student counsellor to have a talk. You can make a booking by emailing studentwellbeing@designacademy.nl
What can a student counsellor help with?
Student counsellors are there to listen, and everything you discuss is confidential. They can, for example:
- Help you find professional mental health support through your GP and health insurance in the Netherlands
(Keep in mind: waiting lists can be long, and sometimes it’s easier to find help in your home country or in your own language.) - Arrange short-term support with a psychologist (at a student rate, self-funded)
- Advise you on requests to the Examination Board, such as:
- Study adjustments
- An extra exam opportunity
- An alternative study programme
- Or explore any other options based on your situation
Some options (like an alternative study programme) require input from the student counsellor.
Incoming students
If you already have professional mental health support, it’s a good idea to keep access to it. Setting up support in the Netherlands can take time.
Access Help Via your GP
It is important to register with a general practitioner doctor in your local area. They are able to help you navigate the health care system in the Netherlands best. If you have not yet registered with a doctor, please do. More information about how to do this here Home-H4i - Healthcare for Internationals
Need to talk to someone right now?
Suicidal thoughts (24/7)
0800-0113 or use chat via the website (English support is available)
0800-0113 or use chat via the website (English support is available)
Do you think about suicide? You can call or chat with aid workers. The 113 webpage is only available in Dutch, but English is supported. You may be redirected during your call or chat to another aid worker that is better able to provide support in English.
MIND Hulplijn (mental health advice)
MIND Hulplijn or call 0900-1450 (Mon–Fri, 09:00–21:00)
Chat or WhatsApp also available (You can ask for English support)
This organisation offers one-time professional advice on mental health. You can call for yourself, if you are worried about someone else or if you are experiencing problems with someone else. You may be redirected during your call or chat to another aid worker who can better provide support in English.
Other useful organisations
Addiction support
The following organizations offer information on alcohol & drugs and offers treatment for addiction.
- Jellinek – info & treatment (088 505 1220)
Self-help & peer support
- Peer groups on topics like addiction, anxiety, LGBTIQA+, and more
Self-help Network - Switchboard is the information and support service for the LGBTIQQ+ community in the Netherlands, providing a listening ear and comforting words. Unbiased and confidential. Switch Board
Sexual health & pregnancy
- Zanzu – info in 17 languages
- Soa Aids Nederland– Information on sexually transmitted diseases, prevention, and how to access testing.
- Mildred Clinics– unwanted pregnancy & abortion support
- In the podcast Tools For Life by TINT, topics such as living on an intercultural campus, finding your way in a new city, self-acceptance, and healthy habits are discussed.
SUPPORT IN YOUR LANGUAGE
Support in your own language
There are helplines worldwide. Check:
www.findahelpline.com
If you’re struggling, you’re not alone, there’s help out there, and it’s okay to reach out
Make time to talk with a student counsellor – studentwellbeing@designacademy.nl