Brain Health Challenge 2025
The #BrainHealthChallenge2025 is a new awareness campaign launched by students of the University of Bern’s Certificate of Advanced Studies (CAS) in Brain Health to make brain health more visible, especially to a younger audience. The Swiss Network for Dementia Research supports the campaign.
A powerful symbol for Brain health
Our brain is our most valuable asset and deserves our protection. The #BrainHealthChallenge2025 uses a powerful symbol to communicate this message: the helmet. It represents not only the physical protection of the brain in case of accidents, but also stands for mental strength, cognitive performance, and the prevention of neurological disorders. Taking care of brain health today is an investment in resilience for tomorrow.
From awareness to action: the goal of the challenge
Despite its growing importance, brain health remains largely invisible, especially among adolescents and young adults. Despite significant advancements at the political and scientific levels through initiatives like the Brain Health Mission of the European Academy of Neurolgyit still lacks accessible, high-visibility campaigns that effectively raise public awareness about the importance of brain health. The #BrainHealthChallenge2025 aims to close this gap.
The mission is to make brain health part of everyday life: visible, relatable and relevant for all generations. By leveraging creativity, digital reach and personal stories, the campaign raises awareness for preventive action and promotes healthier lifestyles. Because there is no health without brain health.
An academic initiative with global impact
The awareness campaign was developed by students of the first-ever Certificate of Advanced Studies at the University of Bern in which currently 36 students from 16 countries participate . Their vision: to build an international network of Brain Health Ambassadors dedicated to raising awareness and making brain health a global priority.
Since its official launch on 22 May 2025, the #BrainHealthChallenge2025 has rapidly gained international momentum. Partners from Canada to the UK, Finland to Romania, and India have already joined this Switzerland-originated movement. This widespread engagement underscores a collective commitment to prioritising brain health on a global scale.
How to join the movement
Participation in the #BrainHealthChallenge2025 is simple and open to everyone who wants to take a stand for mental well-being. At the heart of the challenge is a creative invitation to reflect on and share your personal approach to a brain-healthy lifestyle.
Participants are encouraged to create a short video or photo featuring themselves wearing a helmet, hat or any other form of headwear — symbolizing protection for the brain. Along with the visual, they share one personal strategy for supporting brain health — whether through exercise, healthy eating, sleep, or mental breaks.
The content is then posted on social media using the hashtag #BrainHealthChallenge2025. The goal is to inspire others to reflect on their own habits and to promote prevention and cognitive well-being through a visible, collective message.
