A total of 15 participants from various universities gathered at Biberach University of Applied Sciences (HBC) to discuss current developments and practical approaches relating to the key topic of mental health. In her welcome address, Dr Jasmin Steinhauser, Head of the Organisational Development Department and Deputy Vice-Chancellor at HBC, provided an insight into the university and emphasised the close interconnection between health management, organisational development and human resources development – an approach that is also gaining increasing importance at HNU. Techniker Krankenkasse rounded off the opening session with an overview of the latest findings in mental health, as well as digital and AI-supported health promotion services.
Crisis prevention and initial psychological support
A key highlight was the keynote presentation by coach Iris Espenlaub on dealing with traumatic events at universities. Under the title “Well prepared for emergencies”, she presented practical approaches to crisis situations – a topic that also plays an important role at HNU.
In addition, Frauke Zimmermann and Sonja Schädler presented existing structures and measures at Biberach University of Applied Sciences, including initial psychological support, internal communication channels and cooperation with external support services – valuable insights for the further development of HNU’s structures.
Cancer prevention in the workplace and the outlook
In the afternoon, the focus was on workplace cancer prevention as part of the ‘Prevanti’ programme. Various universities reported on their current plans and initial steps towards implementation.
To conclude, the network looked ahead to the coming years 2026/2027. Particular emphasis was placed on the added value of face-to-face events: direct exchange enables concrete approaches for individual university practices and strengthens collaboration within the network.
