Why am I always so critical? How to overcome a judgemental mindset
Do you often find yourself being overly critical of strangers? We take a closer look at what downward social comparison is, before exploring how to stop it in its tracks…
I need to be strong for my family — but inside I feel numb
Many people suffering from emotional shutdown feel numb inside while appearing strong. Awareness and presence can restore energy and connection. There is one word I particularly hate: stoic. That stiff-upper-lip idea that we must carry on regardless, whatever happens. And this is probably how emotional withdrawal begins for most of us. It rarely looks dramatic. In […]
Can I make money from a hobby? Why I had to start before I was ready
Ever dreamed of making money out of your creative hobby? Anna Behrmann didn’t know where to start, so she sought help from the experts
I thought my stress was all in my head — until I noticed I was holding my breath all day long
If you’ve ever been told to ‘just relax’ and found it impossible, the missing piece may not be mindset — but muscle tension, breath and the way your body is holding stress. Discover these ways to calm your body You might think your stress lives in your thoughts. In the email you can’t quite word […]
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Latest articles
I don’t think I can change job — but can I change how I feel about my work?
Accepting the fact that there is no ideal job can be a liberating experience, says Emma Cook Â
Is my colleague suffering from abuse? The subtle signs we often misunderstand
Many people suffering from abuse carry its impact into the workplace. From missed deadlines to heightened anxiety, recognising these subtle signals can help colleagues feel seen, supported, and less isolated. We tend to think of domestic abuse as something visible. A bruise. A raised voice. A dramatic crisis that spills into public view. But in […]
Why don’t I have more friends? How to create, maintain and enjoy strong companionships
Friendship is a human need, but if you’re hooked on the idea of a group dynamic, you may be seeking the wrong tribe in the wrong place. Emma Reed discovers how belonging can be found without a large posse of pals
I can’t stop worrying about the news: 10 ways to stop spiralling and manage anxiety
With global tensions in the news — like the US strikes on Iran — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by anxiety. The constant flow of negative headlines can leave us stuck in a cycle of worry, unable to focus on anything else. So, how can we regain control and manage anxiety? Award-winning coach Kim Morgan, […]
The true staycation: how to have a retreat at home
How will you be ‘aestivating’ this summer? And what is it? Nature has a way for us to rest, regroup and redirect our lives, says Caroline Sylge. Discover how to create the ultimate home staycation retreat…
Simple daily habits to keep your stress levels in check
From humming to imagining yourself in the future, wellbeing experts share their favourite ways to keep calm when the world feels crazy Words: Ella Walker. Images: Shutterstock Everybody feels stressed sometimes, it’s a completely normal — some would even say vital — part of being human. The adrenaline that comes with it is what helps […]
More than just good friends? The psychological benefits of dog ownership
Rather than the predicted baby boom, the pandemic prompted a craze for pets – and puppies in particular. Rebecca Frank explores why we feel such a special bond with our four-legged companions
We’ve been together forever, how do we keep the love alive? Reignite the spark in a long-term relationship
Lockdown’s unending togetherness has swept many of our relationships into the doldrums. Heidi Scrimgeour explores how to turn embers into passionate flames
Top Reads
I can’t stop worrying about the news: 10 ways to stop spiralling and manage anxiety
With global tensions in the news — like the US strikes on Iran — it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by anxiety. The constant flow of negative headlines can leave us stuck in a cycle of worry, unable to focus on anything else. So, how can we regain control and manage anxiety? Award-winning coach Kim Morgan, […]
I need to be strong for my family — but inside I feel numb
Many people suffering from emotional shutdown feel numb inside while appearing strong. Awareness and presence can restore energy and connection. There is one word I particularly hate: stoic. That stiff-upper-lip idea that we must carry on regardless, whatever happens. And this is probably how emotional withdrawal begins for most of us. It rarely looks dramatic. In […]
The psychology of adult playtime
Ever found yourself feeling like you simply have no time for fun? Think again, says researcher Brigid Schulte, who argues that making time for play is a serious business that can bring huge benefits
Simple daily habits to keep your stress levels in check
From humming to imagining yourself in the future, wellbeing experts share their favourite ways to keep calm when the world feels crazy Words: Ella Walker. Images: Shutterstock Everybody feels stressed sometimes, it’s a completely normal — some would even say vital — part of being human. The adrenaline that comes with it is what helps […]
I thought my stress was all in my head — until I noticed I was holding my breath all day long
If you’ve ever been told to ‘just relax’ and found it impossible, the missing piece may not be mindset — but muscle tension, breath and the way your body is holding stress. Discover these ways to calm your body You might think your stress lives in your thoughts. In the email you can’t quite word […]
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Recent Podcasts
Podcast: How to believe in love, receive romance and keep the flame burning
Love can be one of life’s pleasures – and its challenges! We explore how to receive, enjoy and nurture a romance that lasts
Podcast: How to welcome the new year with hope
The past two years may make it difficult to greet 2022 with much optimism, but shifting your mindset could turn the next 12 months into something to be hopeful about
Podcast: How to stop comfort eating
Do you find yourself comfort eating as a way to cope with life’s challenges? In this episode, we look at the emotions that may be driving you to reach for the biscuit tin and discover healthier ways to nurture yourself
How to get a good night’s sleep: a podcast with UKCP
Professor Sarah Niblock, CEO of the UK Council for Psychotherapy, and UKCP psychotherapist Heather Darwall-Smith discuss the importance of a good night’s sleep, and how to get one every night
Why do I feel lonely in my relationship: a podcast with UKCP
In this podcast, UKCP psychotherapist Fe Robinson speaks to Sarah Niblock, the CEO of the UKCP, to understand why we can feel lonely despite being in a relationship
Is my relationship at risk? A podcast with UKCP
In this Talking Therapies podcast with UKCP, we ask: Is it time to break up and end my relationship?
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Recent videos
Katie Piper on overcoming obstacles to achieving our goals
As Spring approaches you may find yourself returning to an exercise routine or setting new goals for the season ahead. But, sticking to new behaviours can be challenging, even if they are beneficial to our wellbeing. Here, Katie Piper shares her tips for moving past mental barriers and staying on track
Kickstart your daily meditation habit for FREE with a new meditation club
Psychologies Editor-in-Chief Suzy Walker talks to Nick Scaramanga about how to meditate and how it will transform your life
Editor’s Pick
Is it time for a digital detox? Psychologist and Bake Off star Kimberley Wilson explores how to switch off and reconnect with life
Are you constantly on your phone and miss what’s going on around you? Take a moment to turn off the tech and reboot your closest relationships, says Kimberley Wilson, a psychologist and author of ‘How To Build A Healthy Brain’
How to cope with emotions during menopause
If you’re struggling with mood swings during the menopause, you’re not alone. Learn how to take back control and cope with those hormonally-charged emotions…
‘Relationships can exist in all sorts of scenarios’: Anna Williamson shares her experience of getting the best out of love
The worst thing you can do in a relationship? Nothing! Life coach, broadcaster and author Anna Williamson talks to Psychologies about checking in before you check out, the secret to lasting love, and the importance of self-care
Brené Brown on the curse of comparison and how to avoid it
It’s the curse of modern life: the crush between conformity and competition. The world-renowned author and
researcher Brené Brown explores the comparison trap… and how to avoid it
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Test: What’s your secret confidence saboteur?
If you know you’ve got much to be confident about but still have regular wobbles, take our test to find out what confidence saboteur is undermining your self-belief.
Test: What stops you doing Christmas differently?
If, despite your best intentions, you’re still stuck in a festive rut, take our test to uncover your personal barrier to ringing the changes.
Test: What stops you taking your needs seriously?
If you’re never at the top of your agenda, take our test to identify what’s holding you back from prioritising yourself — plus, find what steps you can take to start putting yourself first.
Test: What stops you getting the sleep you need?
If you dream of more restful nights, take our test to find out what is getting in the way of a good night’s sleep, and what steps to take in order to fix it.
Test: What’s your personal mood booster?
If it’s time to step off the emotional rollercoaster! Take our test to find your personal mood management focus and discover what will lift your mood when you need it the most.


