Meet psychopath: narcissism’s more charming (but even nastier) big brother
We picture psychopaths as violent outliers. But psychologist Dr Emma Kavanagh argues the reality is more unsettling: with a blend of charm, confidence and emotional clarity, they are often right at the heart of our society — sometimes even sitting on a pedestal on the top of it. As Emma Kavanagh describes meeting a psychopath, […]
No Snapchat, but you can keep WhatsApp: why social media bans for teens aren’t a simple fix
Should we ban teenagers from social media? That’s the question the British Government is currently debating — and seems to be answering yes. But experts are urging caution in jumping at what may appear to be a simple solution to a far more complex problem Educational psychologist Dr Ahmar Ferguson, who works clinically with children, […]
‘I lie awake until the sun comes up, worrying about what could happen.’ Are you caught in a worry trap?
Learn to sit comfortably with your fears for tomorrow and reclaim your today, writes Kellie Gillespie-Wright.
Worn out from small talk? How to recover from the ‘introvert hangover’
Do you feel drained after a dinner party or get-together? You might be dealing with an ‘introvert hangover’…
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Latest articles
Six red flags your boss could be a psychopath: Dark personality traits in the workplace
A narcissistic boss. A toxic workplace. A destructive leader who leaves you doubting yourself. New research suggests dark personality traits may be surprisingly common in leadership roles — and the impact on employees can be devastating. We’ve all encountered them: the manager who thrives on intimidation, takes credit for others’ ideas, or somehow leaves every […]
Why being the Golden Child can be just as bad as being the Scapegoat: The hidden impact of narcissistic family roles
Being treated as the family favourite might seem like a blessing, while becoming the family scapegoat can feel like a curse. But psychologists say both experiences can leave lasting emotional wounds, shaping self-worth, relationships and identity well into adulthood. Many adults spend years wondering why they struggle to trust themselves. Why criticism feels devastating, they […]
Scientists may have found a brain chemical that helps us break bad habits
If you’ve ever wondered why some habits seem so hard to shake, new research suggests the answer may have less to do with willpower than we think. Scientists say a key brain chemical could play an important role in helping us let go of old behaviours and embrace new ones. Whether you’ve promised yourself you’ll […]
8 signs of high functioning OCD – how to spot them in yourself and others
The signs of high-functioning OCD are often subtle and easy to miss. Here’s what you should be looking out for.
Loneliness in remote workers is rising – here’s how to combat isolation when working from home
For many remote workers, social fulfilment can feel entirely out of reach. Here’s how to stay connected while working from home.
Four of the most common family conflict mistakes — and how to fix them
Heidi Scrimgeour uncovers the common mistakes we make in our family relationships and, alongside a selection of experts, explores simple changes that will make things a whole lot better
Victoria Pendleton: Losing my twin brother made me face my deepest fear
After the deaths of her twin brother and father, Olympian Victoria Pendleton found herself confronting mortality, grief and uncertainty in a new way. She explains why courage isn’t about being fearless – and how stepping towards discomfort can help us live more fully. Victoria Pendleton spent much of her life learning how to face fear. […]
The psychology of holiday relaxation: why the sound of waves could be the stress-relief we all need
New research reveals that natural sounds, seaside scents and sensory experiences could help calm the nervous system, reduce mental fatigue and make holidays feel more restorative. Picture it: the gentle hush of waves rolling onto the shore, the rustle of leaves overhead, birdsong drifting through the trees. Before we’ve even unpacked our bags, many of […]
Top Reads
The subtle signs of narcissistic abuse: why you might not recognise it until it’s too late
Narcissistic abuse is easy to miss, but it can destroy your self-esteem — here’s how to spot it and start taking action “Is that what you’re wearing?” he asks, eyebrow raised. You instantly scan your outfit. Too smart? Skirt too short? What’s wrong with it? Yes, you were going to wear that, but swiftly reconsider […]
The ‘second injury’ of narcissistic abuse: why the damage often continues long after the relationship ends
Psychologists say many survivors of narcissistic abuse experience a hidden aftermath known as the “second injury” — and it can be one of the hardest parts of recovery
Loneliness in remote workers is rising – here’s how to combat isolation when working from home
For many remote workers, social fulfilment can feel entirely out of reach. Here’s how to stay connected while working from home.
The 5-minute meditation that clears morning brain fog
Starting each day with a fuzzy mind and jumbled thoughts? This quick meditation practice can help you find clarity and regain control over your thoughts.
‘I tried so hard to be good!’ Understanding the hidden shame and disappointment of yo-yo dieting
Weight regain after dieting can feel deeply personal, leaving many people convinced they have failed or even damaged their health. But a major new review suggests the dangers of ‘yo-yo dieting’ may have been overstated. Few experiences feel quite as disheartening as watching weight you’ve worked hard to lose slowly return. Perhaps you spent months […]
Uncovering the secret pain of loving someone with mental illness
When depression, anxiety or postnatal depression enters a relationship, the focus naturally falls on the person who is struggling. But behind closed doors, another emotion often takes root – one that few people feel able to admit, even to themselves. There are mornings when she leaves the house with a smile fixed firmly in place, […]
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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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