Katharina Böcker, Psychologist, STW Schleswig Holstein

„ACT for Health“ – a group training for students

University students often face many challenges, such as heavy workloads, exam pressure, worries about the future, and balancing studies with work, family, and social life. These demands can lead to stress, self-doubt, and emotional difficulties. Learning effective ways to handle these challenges can support students‘ well-being during their studies and beyond.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an approach that helps people deal with difficult thoughts and feelings in a healthier way. Instead of trying to get rid of unpleasant emotions, ACT teaches people how to make room for them while staying focused on what matters most to them. Through skills such as mindfulness, acceptance, and identifying personal values, people can learn to respond more flexibly to challenges and take meaningful action even when things are difficult. 

This presentation introduces a six-session ACT group program for university students developed at the University Hospital in Kiel. Since 2023, the program has been offered regularly by Schleswig-Holstein Student Services in cooperation with the University Hospital. The group aims to help students build practical skills for managing stress, difficult emotions, and self-critical thoughts, while supporting their overall well-being.

We will describe the ideas behind the program, explain how the sessions are structured, and present an evaluation study examining its effects on student well-being and coping.