Wietse A. Tol, a leading figure in global mental health, holds academic appointments at the University of Copenhagen, VU University Amsterdam, Innlandet University (Norway), and Johns Hopkins University. His work focuses on multi-sectoral, integrated interventions that address both mental health and its social determinants — from poverty to climate stress — with a sharp eye on how research can inform practice and vice versa. During this episode, we explore Wietse’s personal and professional journey, including formative experiences in Nepal, a shift from aspiring therapist to systems-level researcher, and his current leadership in large-scale mental health prevention initiatives. The conversation highlights the need for upstream solutions, public mental health strategies, and the role of mindfulness in addressing polarization and building social connection. If you’re curious about how structural vulnerabilities and mental health intersect — and what can be done about it — this episode is a must-listen. Listener Engagement:

• Explore Wietse’s publications here.
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• Please do explore the songs selected by previous guests on our #walktalklisten playlist here. Wietse refers to a video that was made of the song he chose, check YouTube.

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