HRA Promovierendentag on 18 April 2024Mental health during the doctoral phase
22 April 2024
Photo: HRA/Helm
Who would have thought that an event focusing on mental health would create such a vibrant atmosphere? On 18 April 2024, more than 80 doctoral researchers and those interested in pursuing a doctorate from various Hamburg universities gathered at the Betahaus coworking space for the HRA Promovierendentag. The event focused on addressing the typical challenges faced during the doctoral journey and exploring strategies and tools to overcome them.
Procrastination, stress, and decisions
The morning workshops provided participants with practical tips for managing procrastination, coping with stress, and improving decision-making skills. In the shorter afternoon sessions, experts from different institutions gave topical insights and presented their services.
Open exchange on the taboo topic of mental health
Throughout the day, there was an open atmosphere, that encouraged lively discussions both in the workshops and during the breaks. It was impressive to see how participants shared their challenges and offered each other advice. The HRA Promovierendentag, with its interdisciplinary character, is an excellent opportunity each year to connect with peers beyond one's own academic community and to make new contacts.
Closing note by Desiree Dickerson: "Filling your bucket"
The day culminated in a closing note by Desiree Dickerson, an internationally renowned expert on mental health in academia. She emphasized the connection between academic performance and various sources of energy: "The cognitive capacity that you require to be the academic that you aspire to be, is not a separate silo of energy. Your Mental, Emotional, and Physical energy are all drawing from the same bucket. Your ability to achieve peak brain performance cannot happen without developing tools to manage your emotions and without looking after your physical health as well."
Impressions from Promovierendentag 2024
Participating institutions
- Beratungszentrum für Gesundheit und Zusammenarbeit (BGZ)
- Campus Center der Universität Hamburg: Workshops and coaching
- Dragonfly Mental Health
- Hochschulsport Hamburg (German only)
- Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) (German only)
- Ombudsstelle der Universität Hamburg (German only)
- Promovierenden-Rat der HRA
- Psychologische Beratung der Universität Hamburg: group coaching for doctoral candidates
- Schreibzentrum der Universität Hamburg (German only)
- SciComm Support
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