Executive Assistant | Contact Person for Diversity and Equity | Mental Health First Aider
Phone:
+49 711 685 60098
Nearly one in three people is affected by a mental illness. At SimTech, we acknowledge the serious impacts that current global challenges, such as ongoing conflicts, discrimination and racism as well as natural disasters can have on our community members. In order to uphold the principles of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) and to break the stigma around Mental Health, SimTech wants to support individuals throughout their work and learning by highlighting opportunities for involvement and education, as well as available resources across the entire university.
- Positive ways in Evermood
- Contact Company Health Management: Marion Specht and Jana Jäckle
- Mental Health First Aiders in SimTech:
- Telephone Counseling (Telefonseelsorge Stuttgart), available 24 hours
- Neutral and Confidential Ombudsperson at the University
Mental Health First Aiders at SimTech
Because mental health is a crucial topic and requires active engagement to overcome stigma and to create safe spaces for exchange and support, SimTech has trained five Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAs).
Mental Health First Aiders
Coordinator GS SimTech I Mental Health First Aider
Phone:
+49 711 685 60115
Coordinator Study Program | Committee for Knowledge Transfer | Mental Health First Aider
Phone:
+49 711 685 69169
Administration I Mental Health First Aider
Phone:
+49 711 685 60056
on maternity leave (Manager for Diversity and Equity I Mental Health First Aider | Deputy Commissioner for students with disabilities or chronic illnesses)
Phone:
+49 711 685 60196
The Role of a Mental Health First Aider
A Mental Health First Aider (MHFA) serves as an accessible first point of contact for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis or the early signs of psychological difficulties. They are not therapists or medical professionals, but trained volunteers who take on this role out of personal commitment and are certified through the Central Institute for Mental Health in Mannheim.
Their primary responsibility is to offer a supportive, confidential space where people can share their struggles, receive emotional support, and be guided toward appropriate professional resources. While MHFAs can provide valuable immediate assistance and a listening ear, their role does not replace long-term therapy or treatment from healthcare specialists.
Further Resources
For more detailed information about the role of Mental Health First Aiders and opportunities for training, please visit the University of Stuttgart’s Workplace Health Promotion page.
Upcoming Events on Well-being and Resilience
On October 9, 2025, SimTech and the Welcome Center at the University of Stuttgart will host the workshop “Thriving in Research: Tools for Well-being and Resilience”. Designed for PhDs and postdocs, the event offers insights into stress and resilience, practical strategies for maintaining mental health in academia, and opportunities for peer support and exchange. Led by certified psychologist Dr. Nadine Binder, who brings long-standing expertise in mental health and well-being, the workshop provides a supportive and safer space to reflect on challenges in research, strengthen resilience, and learn about university resources for well-being.