Erich is a cultural manager, musician, and educator dedicated to improving mental health structures within club culture. Based in Berlin, he has been working with Clubcommission Berlin for five years, advocating for sustainable and resilient club environments. With a background in social pedagogy and mental health prevention, he initiated the "Mental Health in Clubs" project in 2023, a platform dedicated to developing research-based strategies that strengthen mental well-being among club workers and organizations.

In collaboration with Charité, the German Psychological Society, and Fern Universität in Hagen, this initiative explores preventive mental health structures and resilience programs tailored for clubs. Erich’s work bridges research and practice, helping clubs build healthier organizational cultures that support both their teams and long-term sustainability.

Beyond his work in club culture, Erich is a speaker and university lecturer, teaching project management and mental health in the creative industries. Through his lectures and talks, he equips the next generation of cultural professionals with tools to navigate the challenges of creative work while fostering sustainable career paths.

ABSTRACT

Title:  Enhancing Occupational Mental Health in Nightlife Settings – The 'Mental Health in Clubs' Initiative

Background: The nightlife industry is a cornerstone of cultural expression and economic activity, yet its workforce often encounters unique occupational challenges. Irregular hours, high emotional demands, and limited access to structured support systems contribute to increased stress and mental health risks among club workers. Addressing these concerns is essential for fostering a sustainable and healthy nightlife environment.​

Objective: This presentation aims to share insights from the 'Mental Health in Clubs' project, focusing on the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions to enhance mental well-being and organizational resilience within club settings.​

Methods: In collaboration with Charité Berlin, the German Psychological Society, and Fern Universität in Hagen, we conducted a comprehensive analysis involving focus groups, surveys, and direct interventions across various club environments. The study identified key stressors and tailored solutions to address mental health challenges faced by club staff.