haarlemsdagbladJun 6, 2026, 07:00

Caesar (21), Stijn (24) and Max (26) to walk the Camino and develop an AI mental health app on the way: 'The world will be our office'

Three friends, including Haarlem resident Max Helmantel, are embarking on a six-day, 120-kilometer Camino pilgrimage through Portugal starting in mid-August. During their trek, the trio will utilize AI technology to develop a mental health application which they intend to donate to the MIND foundation.

Technology Lifestyle Health Haarlem Netherlands

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Based on reporting by haarlemsdagblad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Alcohol-monitoring anklet to be introduced for alcohol-fueled violence and DUI offenders

The Dutch parliament is moving to introduce mandatory alcohol-monitoring ankle bracelets for offenders convicted of alcohol-fueled violence or severe traffic offenses. The device will monitor alcohol consumption 24/7 via skin sweat samples, providing a more reliable alternative to traditional periodic testing.

Cold weather claims 140 lives in Haarlem annually, where the risk is highest

Cold weather causes approximately 140 deaths annually in Haarlem, contributing to over 10,000 cold-related fatalities across the Netherlands each year. Research by the RIVM highlights that vulnerable elderly populations in specific neighborhoods face significantly higher mortality risks due to factors like energy poverty.

Looking, looking, and fake buying: the dopamine hit without the costs

New online shopping platforms are gaining popularity by allowing users to curate collections of products without the ability to actually purchase them. Experts suggest these sites serve as a psychological tool to help curb impulsive consumerism by providing the satisfaction of browsing without the financial cost.

Painful, black toenails after running: this is 'runner's toe' and how you can prevent it

Runners toe, or a subungual hematoma, is a frequent injury caused by repetitive impact or direct pressure on the toes, often affecting endurance athletes. While usually harmless, the condition results in painful bruising under the nail that can take months to fully resolve as the nail grows out.