The story behind the ‘Getting Better Together’ campaign and why psychological help is inextricably linked to healing

A video that touches your heart

I was recently sitting at my laptop when I came across a video that wouldn’t let me go. Sixteen young patients from Emma Children’s Hospital, each with their own story, read a letter to the person who had helped them through their illness. Two minutes in which so much is said about what it means to be sick, about real support, and about the power of love and care.

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But above all, those letters showed something that is often forgotten: that children should not only be treated medically. They must also be seen, heard and helped mentally. And that makes all the difference.

Why this story touches me personally

Years ago, one of my children was in the hospital. I experienced firsthand how much difference it makes when care goes beyond just medical treatment. The doctors of course, but also the nurses, people who bring food, or just take time for a chat. Together they create a safe world at a time when everything feels vulnerable.

That experience made me think. It was partly the reason why, years later, I left my corporate career to start BrightVibes. To work full-time on telling stories that matter. Stories about people who make a difference.

Because such people deserve a platform. And such care deserves our support.

Mental care for sick children: the invisible problem

Here’s something that is often forgotten: physically ill children often also struggle with mental complaints. Anxiety, sadness, trauma. It makes sense when you think about it; imagine what it’s like as a child to be confronted with pain, uncertainty and hospital admissions.

The figures are confronting: only 20 percent of children with psychological problems receive the right help. That means four out of five children have to manage without adequate support for their mental wellbeing.

At Emma Children’s Hospital Amsterdam – the Netherlands’ largest academic children’s hospital, part of Amsterdam UMC – mental care is fortunately not seen as a luxury or side issue. It’s an integral part of the recovery process. Through their Medical Psychiatric Unit, they offer unique, combined care to children struggling with both physical and mental challenges.

Super Chill: mental rest in the hospital

A beautiful example of this holistic approach is the Super Chill room that was recently opened. As BrightVibes, we have written about it before, because it’s such a valuable initiative for both children and their parents.

Super Chill is not a therapy room or treatment space. It’s a safe haven within the often overwhelming hospital environment. A place with breathing exercises, soothing music, soft cushions and above all: peace. No treatments for a moment, no beeping devices, no stress. Just space to be who you are.

Getting Better Together: the campaign that makes the difference

The ‘Getting Better Together’ campaign by Emma Children’s Hospital shows exactly why psychological help for sick children is so important. By having sixteen patients tell their story, it becomes clear that mental health and physical recovery go hand in hand.

Emma Children’s Hospital demonstrates that good care goes far beyond medical protocols and treatments. It shows that mental health is not a side issue, but basic care. A child can only truly recover when they feel safe and understood.

Projects that make the difference

Thanks to Emma Children’s Hospital Foundation, projects are made possible that directly contribute to better mental care for children:

• The Medical Psychiatric Unit (MPU) – combined care for children with complex physical and mental challenges
• ENYOY – a digital platform that helps young people develop their mental resilience
• Research into better sleep – because rest is crucial for recovery
• Home monitoring for anorexia – innovative care at home too

Support mental care for sick children

Do you want to contribute to care that supports both body and mind? You can donate via steunemma.nl. Every contribution, large or small, really helps in realizing better mental care at Emma Children’s Hospital.

Because as the ‘Getting Better Together’ campaign shows: every child deserves a world where their mental wellbeing is cherished and protected.

Gratitude for the real heroes

A deep bow to the sixteen children who dared to share their stories. For the parents who are always there, even when it gets tough. And for all the people at Emma Children’s Hospital, from specialized doctors to care assistants, who show every day what care with a capital C means.

Credits for the Getting Better Together campaign:
Concept & creation: @coolcreative_amsterdam, @caslebbink, @blzwagerman
Strategy & editing: Albronda + Rietstap, @royrietstap, @hashtagjoost