Mental Health Meetup: Grief and Joy During the Holidays

In 2025, IHL conducted a survey to understand how internationals in Leuven and the surrounding areas were doing. One thing internationals mentioned they needed more of was mental health support.

So we are launching Mental Health Meetups at IHL. Each month, different topics will be featured relating to mental health. The events will be hosted by mental health professionals, bringing their expertise to the international community.

These events will be in a variety of formats. Some will be informational, conversational, interactive, etc. It's a safe space to participate how you would like (active or passive).

Theme for this event:
Grief and Joy During the Holidays

Being far from "home" has unique benefits and challenges any time of the year, but for some of us the twinkling lights of the winter season press on the pain points of our longing and loneliness quite forcefully. As the days get darker and the wind colder, we find a moment to build our own community.

This evening holds a small group format that adapts to the needs of those participating. We seek to create safety and warmth and to come together to share our sorrow and our joy.

You do not need to have prior group therapy experience to attend, but a willingness to share, try something new, and empathize with others are all helpful.