Post by The Centre for Urban Mental Health

🎤 SYMPOSIUM: S.O.S. Mental Health: Toward Thriving Cities for Future Generations 📅 May 20, 2026 🕐 13:00–17:00 📍 University Library UvA – Surgical Theatre, Amsterdam 🆓 Free admission – registration required More than half of the world’s population now lives in cities. While cities offer opportunities, they can also place increasing pressure on our mental health. How can we shape urban environments that support well-being—rather than undermine it? The Centre for Urban Mental Health (UMH) warmly invites you to this inspiring symposium, organised as part of the IAS Festival—celebrating the 10-year anniversary of the UvA Institute for Advanced Study (UvA). Together with researchers and experts, we will explore how cities can become mentally healthier places to live—today and for future generations. 🌿 From biodiversity and urban design to neuroscience and (digital) interventions, this afternoon brings together insights from multiple disciplines to address one of the most urgent challenges of our time. Keynote speakers: • Kathy Willis – nature, biodiversity, and mental health • Zef Hemel– visionary urban planning • Eveline Crone – development and youth mental resilience In addition, researchers from UMH, including Johan Bollen, Claudi Bockting, Reinout Wiers, and Harm Krugers. 🎙 The afternoon will be moderated by Margreet Reijntjes and includes a public discussion where science, practice, and audience perspectives come together. Whether you are a researcher, policymaker, professional, or simply interested in Mental Health and the future of our cities this symposium offers fresh perspectives and meaningful dialogue. 👉 More information and registration: https://lnkd.in/eFcrNgfu