Meet Gwen Bach
Applied Neuroscientist & Chief Brain Health Officer at BEE NOVA, Founder Goals Ninja​​
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As a Full Member of ANA and Founding Member of the ANA Frankfurt Chapter, Gwen has supported the Association’s social impact mission since its inception. She is a key contributor to ANA’s initiatives and advocacy, and leverages her expertise to translate research into practical knowledge and actionable solutions that are aimed at enhancing everyday lives and organisational well-being.
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As the founder of Goals Ninja, Gwen has developed a framework grounded in neuroscience and behavioural psychology that helps individuals and organisations move from intention to meaningful action. Her work focuses on procrastination: identifying productivity barriers, setting achievable goals, and creating sustainable success. Applying evidence-based strategies, her goal is to empower people to build habits that align with their values and objectives. ​Goals Ninja Blog is a valuable resource where readers can expect straightforward advice, engaging stories, and free practical tools for everyday life.
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As Chief Brain Health Officer at BEE NOVA, the current focus is delivering BrainTools — a strategic platform for businesses seeking an ‘early warning system’ of employee feedback, powered by ethical AI and sustained through anonymity, enabling real-time insights into cognitive wellbeing, team dynamics, and organisational resilience.
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Gwen's Social Impact Pledge: 2 - PUBLIC EDUCATION AND AWARENESS
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Suffering in Silence: Masculinity, Mental Health, and Alcohol Self-medication
As part of the ANA International Men's Day Celebration (#IMD2024) Forum, Gwen spoke about particular research that showed many men self-medicate with alcohol to cope with mental health issues, particularly anxiety and depression, often driven by societal norms that discourage vulnerability. Studies highlight a strong link between alcohol use and mental health problems, with alcohol consumption used to manage anxiety, social discomfort, and trauma. The COVID-19 pandemic intensified this behaviour, particularly among those experiencing heightened anxiety and depression. The stigma around mental health and masculine ideals exacerbates the issue, making men less likely to seek help. A comprehensive approach is needed to address this. In this Talk, we will initiate the conversation with a strategy that includes mental health awareness and reducing stigma around seeking support.
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Click the YouTube link below to listen to Gwen's talk.
