From 5 to 9 October 2026, the University of Zadar hosted the on-site week of the EU-CONEXUS Blended Intensive Programme (BIP) Mental Health, Resilience and Happiness. The international programme brought together students and lecturers for a week of learning and exchange focused on mental health, well-being and resilience.
The programme explored these themes from psychological, neuroscientific and technological perspectives. Through lectures, workshops and group activities, participants examined the science of happiness, emotional literacy, perfectionism and self-acceptance, as well as the relationship between brain health, purpose in life and resilience. Sessions also addressed the use of artificial intelligence in mental health support and the potential, limitations and ethical considerations of biosensors and wearable technologies in measuring stress.
The programme included contributions from academics and specialists from the University of Zadar, Universidad Católica de Valencia in Spain and the Agricultural University of Athens in Greece. The international setting gave participants the opportunity to exchange perspectives and consider how research and theory can inform practical approaches to well-being in everyday life.
The on-site week formed part of a blended programme that also includes a virtual component in the second half of October. During the online session, participants will revisit key ideas from the programme, share reflections on applying well-being strategies and develop personal plans for supporting their mental health and resilience.
By bringing together expertise across disciplines and universities, the BIP encourages students to consider mental health as a multidimensional subject and to engage critically with the approaches and tools that can support well-being.
