PRO-BEN Lazio 2 Project
Luiss Guido Carli University, through the PRO-BEN Lazio 2 project funded by the Ministry of University and Research, is promoting the mental and physical well-being of the student community. The initiative aims to promote inclusion and personal and emotional growth, as well as to prevent and address psychological distress among students at the participating universities.
The project will run for one year and is being carried out in partnership with the University of Rome Tor Vergata, Roma Tre University, the University of Cassino and Southern Lazio, the Campus Bio-Medico University, the National Academy of Dance, and the Santa Cecilia Conservatory.
Equity, inclusivity, sustainability, and accessibility are the guiding principles for all project activities.
Project objectives:
The project comprises a series of targeted interventions aimed at preventing psychological distress and promoting the overall well-being of the student body:
- Conducting a survey to gather data on the psychophysical well-being and psychological stress levels of students at the participating universities. This survey will serve two purposes: providing epidemiological data and acting as a screening tool to identify any difficulties at an early stage.
- The creation and enhancement of structures to counteract risk factors: based on the survey results, we will proceed with the creation and enhancement of structures and tools that foster innovative solutions and methods to provide ongoing support for the needs of the student population.
- The creation and implementation of the “Lazio Model” for psychological counselling. A shared counselling model dedicated to student mental health will be developed and implemented, with the potential for it to be replicated nationwide. The “Luiss Ti Ascolta” Counselling Service will also be expanded in terms of hours and spaces, to offer more timely and comprehensive support, both individually and in groups. The expansion aims to ensure that students’ diverse needs are met through access to a wide range of resources and support.
- Promoting information, dissemination, and guidance activities: holding seminars on cultural shock, addictions, and mindful eating. These sessions aim to raise participants’ awareness of issues related to inclusion, cultural identity, migration, and intercultural exchange.
Expected impact
Through the planned actions, the project aims to achieve the following results:
- Promoting the mental and physical well-being of the entire student body and reducing their psychological distress.
- Improving understanding of the phenomenon of mental distress and its determinants among the student population.
- Tackling addiction in its various forms: drugs, alcohol, and so-called new addictions.
- Improving the quality of student life.
- Identifying support pathways for psychological distress in its various forms.
The PRO-BEN LAZIO 2 project, CUP Master E53C24003940001 – CUP derivative LUISS I53C24003740001, is funded with a grant from the Ministry of University and Research pursuant to Decree No. 1396 of 18/09/2024 – PROBEN 2024 Notice.
On Monday 19 May, from 6:00 pm, the workshop “Food and Body without Filters” took place in the Toti Lecture Hall. Understanding the relationship between control, emotions, and body image”, focused on the topic of psychological well-being in relation to food and one's body.
The initiative, organised as part of the "PRO-BEN Lazio 2" project, aims to help Luiss students understand the psychological mechanisms that govern eating behaviour and body image. It provides practical tools to recognise dysfunctional patterns and develop a more conscious relationship with oneself.
During the meeting, participants had the opportunity to explore topics such as the distinction between physical and emotional hunger, the paradox of food control, and the influence of social media on self-image. This was achieved through moments of individual reflection, interactive activities, and guided discussion.
This workshop is the first in a series of sessions on the topic, with further events scheduled from September onwards to ensure a continuous journey of reflection and support.
The workshop was led by Dr Marta Cavallari, a psychologist and psychotherapist.
How many hours did you spend in front of a screen yesterday? This question led to the development of the workshop "Connection or Addiction? The Psychology of Social Media Use”, held on Tuesday 23 June.
Organised as part of the "PRO-BEN Lazio 2" project, the event will guide Luiss students on a journey of critical exploration of their relationship with social media, starting with the neurobiological foundations of compulsive use and moving on to practical strategies for regaining control.
Topics to be covered include: how the dopamine system and variable rewards work; how platforms are designed to grab attention; FOMO and online social comparison; and the use of social media as a form of emotional avoidance. This is complemented by opportunities for self-assessment and practical tools that can be applied in everyday life.
The workshop is part of a series of sessions on students' psychological well-being, which will continue with new events starting in September.
The workshop was led by Dr Marta Cavallari, a psychologist and psychotherapist.