For best experience please turn on javascript and use a modern browser!
You are using a browser that is no longer supported by Microsoft. Please upgrade your browser. The site may not present itself correctly if you continue browsing.
Creative approaches are necessary to manage the care needs of aging societies and to address rising rates of mental distress and chronic disease. The expertise of humanities researchers is especially useful for investigating the cultural contexts of health, demonstrating how history and culture are intertwined with behavioural factors and social determinants to undermine or promote wellbeing.

The global movement of Arts & Culture for Health is also generating mounting evidence of the benefits of arts on prescription and the uses of culture and heritage in medical education, preventive  health, and patient care. Such activities draw on novel partnerships and will transform practice as well as professional roles – in healthcare but also far beyond. Health Humanities researchers collaborate with colleagues across the university and with  societal partners to examine the experiences of patients and practitioners, investigate emerging models and their impact, and contribute to new strategies for improving healthcare and public health.

How family routines can support mental health

Modern families face increasing pressure to balance work, caregiving, and self-care—often within rigid, time-scarce environments. Introducing "time-care", an interdisciplinary team will study the structuring of daily routines in ways that better support both children and caregivers. 

Manon Parry
Faculty lead

Manon S. Parry, PhD, is an historian of medicine and exhibition curator, specializing in the uses of the humanities for health and wellbeing. She is Professor of Medical History at the Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam (VU), and Associate Professor in American Studies and Public History at the University of Amsterdam (UvA).