Category Archives: Astronomy for mental health

IAPS-OAD Mental Health Workshop on “Planetary Self-Care Activities”

On November 4, 2023, the OAD’s Astronomy for Mental Health group, in partnership with the International Association of Physics Students (IAPS), conducted a pair of virtual workshops tailored for physics students. These sessions were dedicated to exploring the potential of astronomy as a tool for enhancing mental well-being. The workshops commenced with introductions to the […]

Exploring Mental Well-being Among Postgraduate Students

In a world where academic pursuits often take center stage, the well-being of postgraduate students is a topic of increasing concern. On September 15, 2023, a unique event took place that delved deep into the minds of postgrads, shedding light on their mental health struggles and coping strategies. The Astronomy for Mental Health team, in […]

Article in the CAP Journal: Astronomy for Mental Health Guidelines

OAD Fellow Dominic Vertue and past Fellow Sandra Benitez have published an article in the CAP Journal on guidelines for applying astronomy to benefit mental well-being. Astronomy, with its vast array of tools and resources, can greatly benefit society. One area in need of new approaches and interventions is mental health and well-being. Diminished mental […]

Promoting Intellectual Engagement and Well-being at a Psychiatry Facility

In May 2023, OAD Fellow Dominic Vertue organised a series of educational sessions at the Community Mental Health and Psychiatry Foundation (CMHPF) in Cape Town, South Africa, as part of the Astronomy for Mental Health project. The primary goal was to stimulate intellectual engagement while contributing to overall well-being using astronomy. The sessions used a […]

‘Astronomy for Mental Health’ Project Engages People With Various Cognitive Abilities

The Office of Astronomy for Development (OAD) is on a mission to use astronomy, its resources, skills, and people to make the world a better place, regardless of one’s background or cognitive abilities. Recently, the team, led by OAD Fellow Dominic Vertue, conducted interactive and exploratory astronomy sessions at three Community Mental Health and Psychiatry […]