Mental Health

Art Tour

Understanding Yourself

“Mental health is a broad concept with many facets. It’s about how you relate to yourself and others, how you tackle daily challenges, and how this is perceived by you and those around you.” For Jitske, mental health is closely linked to physical health. “When I feel stress or tension, I immediately notice it in my body.” As an athlete, she relies on her physical condition to perform well. Some days are better than others, but she sees a direct impact on her performance on the basketball court when she feels mentally strong. “Being mentally balanced is crucial for me to get the best out of myself, both in sports and in life.”

Consistency Over Perfection

Managing stress remains a challenge, even for Jitske. “I don’t always handle it perfectly, but I try to go back to the basics—breathing calmly, focusing on small tasks, and breaking down bigger goals into smaller steps.” She applies the same principle during games. “I focus on a task that I know I’m good at. That gives me confidence, and from that confidence, I can perform better.”

Vulnerability Is Strength

Jitske believes in the power of vulnerability. “Dare to be vulnerable. For me, it helps to acknowledge when I’m struggling or feeling overwhelmed. Sharing moments of stress with teammates is a huge relief and gives me new energy.”

Returning to a World of Creativity

As a child, Jitske loved being creative—drawing, crafting, and immersing herself in artistic activities. After a car accident two years ago left her with a concussion, she was forced to slow down. During that time, she discovered embroidery. “It brought me a lot of peace. The repetitive motion of stitching felt almost meditative.” Recently, she has also taken up sewing. “My grandmother used to teach handicraft classes, and she taught me how to use a sewing machine. Nowadays, I use my elbow to press the pedal instead of my foot.” The creative process gives her a sense of fulfillment and helps her relax.

Inspiration From Courage and Art

One of the most inspiring moments for Jitske was when gymnast Simone Biles withdrew from the Tokyo Olympics to prioritize her mental health. “That shows incredible strength. As an athlete, you sacrifice four years for that one moment, and then choosing yourself… that’s truly impressive.” She has also always been deeply moved by the work of Vincent van Gogh. “His colorful landscapes bring back fond memories of vacations in the south of France. I loved his work as a child—my first school presentation was even about him.”



A Valuable Lesson

Jitske acknowledges that giving advice is often easier than applying it yourself. “I don’t always have the perfect answer either. But what I’ve learned is that you have to allow yourself time. Things don’t have to be perfect all at once.” Her most important advice: “If you’re struggling, seek help. Go to that therapist, psychologist, or coach who can support you. It’s not a weakness—it’s a gift to yourself. By investing in your mental health, you’re truly helping yourself move forward.”.