Mental Wellbeing and Nature as a Resource for Health

Join us to explore mental wellbeing, recovery and nature-based approaches to health and wellbeing through international collaboration and an intensive week in Finland!

Mental Wellbeing, Recovery, Inclusion and Nature as a Resource for Health

This Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) is organised in collaboration between higher education institutions in Finland, Belgium and Ireland. The programme explores mental wellbeing, recovery and health promotion from a holistic and cross-cultural perspective, highlighting the importance of inclusion, resilience, supportive environments and person-centred approaches.

The programme includes three online sessions prior to an intensive face-to-face week in Finland at the end of April 2027. Together, these learning activities provide students with opportunities to explore themes related to wellbeing, recovery, participation, diversity and the role of nature as a resource for health and wellbeing. The programme also encourages participants to critically reflect on stigma related to mental health and recovery.

The BIP is designed for both nursing and social services students, offering opportunities for interdisciplinary learning and collaboration. Through international exchange and intercultural dialogue, participants will deepen their understanding of how professionals can support wellbeing, recovery and meaningful participation in everyday life across diverse European contexts.

Date:

8th of February 2027 to 30th of April 2027

Language of instruction:

English

3 ECTS credits
Academic recognition:

To be defined by each higher education institution. Generally, most students will have this BIP certified in their diploma supplement, as a minimal condition.

Eligible participants:

RUN-EU students.

How to apply:

Login to apply for this product.

Deadline for applications: 11th of December 2026

Funding:
Erasmus+
Grant details:

Please contact your International Office at your HEI for information about Grants

Programme at a glance

Exploring the impact of stigma on wellbeing, participation and recovery through the example of obesity among children and young adults (online)
08 Feb 2027 :
2-5 pm (GMT+2)
Exploring the Relationship Between Nature, Mental Wellbeing and Recovery: Cross-Cultural Theoretical Perspectives (online)
05 Mar 2027 :
2-5 pm (GMT+2)
Recovery, Participation and Inclusion in Mental Health Care (online)
24 Mar 2027 :
2-5 pm (GMT+2)
Face-to-face week (in person)
26 Apr - 30 Apr 2027 :
Visamäki Campus Hämeenlinna Finland
26.4.2027 first day:
- 12:00 registration
- 13:00 welcoming speech
- 13:30 campus tour
- 15:00 team building and snacks
- 15:45 end of day reflection

27.4.2027 second day:
- 09:00 meeting the clients and case overview
- 10:00 workshop 1: Recovery among children and young adults. 
- 12:00 Lunch
- 13:00 workshop 2: Experiential Learning Activities
- 15:00 end of day reflection

28.4.2027 third day:
- 09:00 catch up from yesterday
- 10:00 workshop 3: Exploring the Relationship Between Nature and Mental Wellbeing
- 12:00 lunch
- 13:00 workshop Experiential Learning Activities
- 15:00 end of day reflection

29.4.2027 fourth day:
- 09:00 catch up from yesterday
- 10:00 workshop 5: Participation and Inclusion in Mental Health Care 
- 12:00 lunch
- 13:00 workshop 6: Experiential Learning Activities
- 15:00 end of day reflection

30.4.2027 fifth day:
- 09:00 BIP final seminar and presentations
- 11:00 learner experience survey and feedback
- 12:00 lunch
- 13:00 end of week reflection and certificates

Learning outcomes

By the end of this Erasmus+ Blended Intensive Programme, learners will be able to:

Students will examine the role of nature in supporting mental well-being and gain practical experience in using nature-based approaches to promote the well-being of clients

Students should be able to discuss different evidence-based and recovery-oriented approaches that promote mental well-being and support individuals in managing mental health challenges

They should understand the importance of person-centred care, empowerment, participation, and self-determination in the recovery process.

Students should be able to explain how mental health stigma can affect recovery and identify strategies that reduce stigma and promote recovery-oriented care and social inclusion

Selection criteria

Nursing and social care students are prioritised

Involved organisations and persons

Howest University of Applied Sciences

Partner Organisation
  • Lynn Buyvoets (Instructor)
  • Tine Depuydt (Instructor)

Häme University of Applied Sciences

Lead Organisation
  • Kirsi Kanerva (Lead Instructor)
  • Liisi Heinilä (Instructor)
  • Tiia Ahila (Instructor)

Technological University of the Shannon

Partner Organisation
  • Bernadette Naughton (Instructor)

Other persons involved

  • Kalle Punto (Regional Stakeholder)
Product label: BIP-MHSAISSU-01

Funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Education and Culture Executive Agency (EACEA). Neither the European Union nor EACEA can be held responsible for them. Grant Agreement Number: 101124674

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