On March 18th, across Europe, we draw attention to the organ without which there would be neither engineering, scientific research, nor exams – the brain. European Day of the Brain is not just a symbolic date on the calendar. It is an invitation to reflect: how do we work with our "command center" and are we providing it with the conditions for long-term functioning?
Many countries organize public lectures, workshops promoting neuroscience, information campaigns, and events as part of the Brain Awareness Week initiative, coordinated by organizations such as the World Federation of Neurology. Universities and research institutes are conducting debates about mental health, the prevention of neurodegenerative diseases, and the impact of lifestyle on cognitive function. This is a good time for the academic community to pause and ask: how do we support our own cognitive resources?

The Brain – the Most Advanced "Operating System"

The human brain contains approximately 86 billion neurons, creating trillions of synaptic connections. The prefrontal cortex supports planning and decision-making (i.e., surviving projects and grants), the hippocampus is responsible for memory, the amygdala processes emotions, and the brainstem regulates basic life functions.
For a technical university, executive functions—concentration, reaction inhibition, cognitive flexibility, and working memory—are particularly important. They allow us to analyze data, program, design, solve problems, and collaborate in research teams.

Neuroplasticity – the Brain That Learns (Lifelong)

One of the most fascinating discoveries in neuroscience is neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to reorganize and create new connections based on experience.
Thanks to it, we:

• learn a new programming language,
• adapt to a changing work environment,
• recover from mental health crises,
• develop new strategies for coping with stress.

Research shows that the brain changes in response to regular cognitive effort, physical movement, and mindfulness training. In other words, what we do every day truly shapes our neural networks.

The Brain and Mental Health in the Academic Environment

Depression, anxiety disorders, ADHD, and burnout are not "weaknesses of character." They have neurobiological correlates – related to the regulation of neurotransmitters and the functioning of specific brain structures.
Understanding this helps:

• reduce stigma,
• respond more quickly to the first symptoms of overload,
• build an academic culture based on empathy and responsibility.

In the realities of a technical university, the distinction between high engagement and chronic cognitive overload is particularly important. A brain that works without regeneration does not become more effective – it becomes less flexible.

How to support the brain in practice? (version for busy people)

1. Exercise
   Regular aerobic activity supports neurogenesis in the hippocampus and improves memory.
2. Sleep
   During sleep, memory consolidation occurs and the brain "cleanses" of metabolites. Shortening sleep impairs executive functions faster than we think.
3. Diet
   Omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables, whole grains, and antioxidants support cognitive function.
4. Cognitive Training
   Learning new skills (not just professional), reading, and interdisciplinary discussions build cognitive reserve.
5. Social Relationships
   Good relationships protect against cognitive decline and support emotion regulation.
6. Stress Regulation
   Chronic stress negatively impacts the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Short, restorative breaks during the workday increase productivity more than long, "stretchy" hours.

Prevention and Early Diagnosis

In the context of neuropsychology, early recognition of cognitive difficulties is crucial – both in neurological diseases and mental disorders. Testing memory, attention, and executive functions allows for more accurate support planning.
If you experience long-term difficulties with concentration, memory, emotion regulation, or sleep, it's a sign to consult a specialist. Early support significantly increases the effectiveness of interventions.

Why is this important at a technical university?

Because the brain is our basic work tool.
By caring for it, we care about the quality of research, teaching, and teamwork.
European Brain Day can be an opportunity to:

• introduce small changes in daily functioning,
• talk about cognitive overload,
• reflect on the work culture in the academic environment.

By investing in the brain, we invest in long-term performance – not only intellectual, but also emotional.