Patient Inclusion in Mental Health Education

The Patient Inclusion in Mental Health Education project, managed by the Nationaal Kennisinstituut Onderwijs under the Nederlandse Organisatie voor Wetenschappelijk Onderzoek, aims to integrate people with lived experience directly into psychology education. By involving experts by experience in a second-year bachelor elective, the initiative moves beyond theoretical learning and fictional examples. These experts will contribute by co-designing instructional materials, sharing personal narratives in the classroom, and providing direct feedback to students. The primary goals of this initiative are to deepen students' understanding of mental health, reduce social stigma, and foster essential communication skills. Beyond the immediate educational impact, the project will result in a redesigned course and a practical guide intended for adoption by other psychology programs across the Netherlands. This award notice, identified by solicitation number 40.5.26865.011, outlines a strategic shift toward more inclusive and practical mental health training.