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The power of prevention: put on a bicycle helmet

Nice to meet you: David Linden

In a country where cycling is second nature, wearing a bicycle helmet remains surprisingly uncommon. For David Linden, Scientific Director of the Mental Health and Neuroscience Research Institute (MHeNS) and a neuropsychiatrist, this is difficult to understand. Based on on his clinical experience with patients with brain injuries, he sees every day how vulnerable the brain is and how much difference a helmet can make.

“I have long been an advocate and almost an activist for bicycle helmets,” says Linden. “Of course, the best approach is to prevent cycling accidents. But if they do occur, a bicycle helmet can help limit serious harm.”

The impact of brain injury

As a neuropsychiatrist, Linden works closely with colleagues at the brain injury outpatient clinic. There, he supports patients who, after an accident, struggle with cognitive, emotional and psychological consequences. His work begins where acute care ends and focuses on recovery, resilience and reintegration. “After an accident, a long road often follows,” he explains. “People must learn to cope with physical, mental and cognitive limitations. How do you return to your studies or work? How do you resume daily life? These challenges can last months or even years.”

In addition to direct brain injury, many patients experience psychological consequences, such as anxiety and trauma. “It is a combination of neurological and psychological effects,” he says. “That is precisely why timely support is so important.”k.”

Prevention

Although treatment is essential, Linden believes the greatest gains lie in prevention. A helmet can significantly reduce the impact of a fall and help prevent severe brain injury. A simple measure can make a substantial difference: wearing a helmet reduces the risk of serious head and brain injury by 60%. “The brain is vulnerable,” he emphasises. “You have a protective skull, but beneath it lies soft and delicate tissue. A bicycle helmet adds an extra protective layer and can significantly reduce the force of an impact.”

This conviction is not only professional, but also personal. Linden has worn a bicycle helmet for decades, a habit he developed during his time in the United Kingdom, where helmet use is far more common. A cycling accident of his own reinforced his belief in its importance. “In one accident, my helmet was damaged, but I remained unharmed. That was when I truly realised how valuable such a simple measure can be.”

 

A cultural shift

In contrast to countries such as England, wearing a bicycle helmet in the Netherlands still lags behind. According to Linden, this is largely a cultural issue. “In the Netherlands, it is not truly popular among any age group,” he says. “That is precisely why awareness is so important, especially among young people. It would be wonderful if wearing a bicycle helmet became as natural as wearing one while skiing.” He sees an important role for education, campaigns and role models. “If you start young and normalise it, it becomes part of your daily routine.”

Bicycle Helmet Day

Initiatives such as Bicycle Helmet Day and the ‘Zet ’m op!’ campaign by Maastricht University contribute to this cultural shift, according to Linden. By encouraging employees to wear helmets and making them accessible, the university is taking an important step towards safer cycling.

“I believe such campaigns are extremely important,” he says. “They raise awareness and help to normalise the wearing of helmets. It is a simple and accessible way to prevent brain injury.” He leads by example: he cycles to work every day and always wears a helmet.

Get your bicycle helmet

With the ‘Zet ’m op!’ campaign, Maastricht University encourages its employees to cycle safely and wear a bicycle helmet. UM employees with an employment contract can purchase a high-quality Shimano helmet for just €12.50. The promotion runs until the end of 2027.

The first distribution moment will take place on 15 April. At 3.30 p.m., employees can visit FHML (Universiteitssingel 40, rear entrance) to try on a helmet and take one home immediately. The first 200 helmets will be available.

David Linden stresses: “Just give it a try. In time, it becomes second nature. You will not leave the house without your helmet.”

 

Text: Fleur Habers 

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