Bored by normal life? 6 red flags your phone is controlling your attention
From compulsively checking notifications to feeling anxious when you’re offline, psychologists explain the six signs your relationship with social media may be becoming unhealthy – and how to regain control.
The psychology of narcissism: why midterm defeat may be particularly difficult for Donald Trump
Donald Trump’s midterm setback has dealt an enormous blow to his political authority. But why can criticism, rejection and losing be especially difficult for someone with strong narcissistic traits? Psychologists explain the relationship between admiration, self-worth and the need to win
10 quiet signs you might have fallen for someone with psychopathic traits (and one you mustn’t ignore)
Psychopaths don’t always look like the villains we imagine. From excessive charm and calculated kindness to subtle put-downs and gaslighting, psychologist Dr Emma Kavanagh reveals 10 behaviours that could suggest someone has psychopathic traits – and why the warning signs can be so difficult to spot.
Is it cheating if you fall for someone in a video game? The new rules of emotional infidelity
As virtual worlds become increasingly social, the boundaries between gaming, flirting and emotional infidelity are becoming harder to define. But if you — or your partner — develop romantic feelings for someone you’ve met in a game, does it count as cheating?
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Latest articles
After Russell Brand’s trial concluded, we ask why wives and other women stand by men accused of sexual offences
From the pressure to defend a partner to the power of celebrity charisma, UKCP accredited Psychotherapist Lisa Bruton explains why women may remain loyal to men facing serious allegations — and why the public is often quick to judge the women standing beside them.
Why are some people ashamed to admit they have ADHD? The hidden emotions behind a diagnosis
An ADHD diagnosis can bring welcome relief, helping people understand themselves and difficulties they may have struggled with for years. Yet for some, admitting to others that they have ADHD can feel difficult. Experts explain why some people fear being judged because of their diagnosis.
Does putting up your Christmas tree early make you happier? Therapists explain the psychology behind it
If festive music and twinkling lights make you happy, why wait until December? Experts explain how to enjoy the season on your own terms without losing sight of what you need now.
Do people always get your name wrong? A coach explains why it can sting — and how to speak up with confidence
Have you ever let someone call you the wrong name because correcting them felt awkward? Writer Greta Solomon reflects on her own experience, while an expert explains why names matter and how to speak up when yours is repeatedly mispronounced.
Is your sensitivity more than a personality trait? The difference between HSP and autism, according to a counselor
If you’ve spent years being told you’re ‘too sensitive’, you may be looking for an explanation. Here’s what experts say about sensory overload, empathy, and the differences between HSP traits and autism.
Could writing about your pain help you move forward? The journalling prompts to try during life’s big changes
Grief isn’t always about losing someone. It can also come from a relationship ending, a dream slipping away, or a life that looks different from the one you imagined. Coach and journalling expert Jackee Holder explains how writing can help you process these quieter losses.
Why do we hurt the people we love most? We asked relationship expert Paul Brunson
Why do we hurt the people we love most, even when we know our words can cause damage? Relationship expert Paul Brunson explains how stress, resentment and feeling unheard can make us lash out – and shares how to stop arguments escalating and rebuild better communication.
Worried about the cost of Christmas? Here are six ways to share costs, set boundaries, and take the pressure off
You don’t have to spend more to show your loved ones you care. Discover how to approach awkward money conversations, agree on gift limits and make Christmas more affordable for everyone.
Top Reads
What your body is trying to tell you when you keep waking up at 3am
If you regularly wake in the middle of the night, it may not be a random sleep problem. Your body clock could be playing a bigger role than you realise
Could LaVita make taking vitamins simpler? What to know about its all-in-one liquid micronutrient formula
One daily serving. 22 micronutrients. More than 70 natural ingredients. LaVita is designed to make everyday supplementation refreshingly straightforward.
Five minutes that could change how you sleep every night
If you’re struggling to sleep, the answer might have less to do with your bedtime routine and more to do with how you spend your waking hours — especially what you do when you first get out of bed.
Coercive control: How to recognise the signs and rebuild your life after abuse
It rarely starts with threats or violence. Coercive control can begin with seemingly caring behaviour before escalating into isolation, monitoring and manipulation that gradually erode your confidence and independence. Trauma specialist psychotherapist Tina Chummun explains how to recognise the warning signs, understand why leaving doesn’t always end the fear and begin rebuilding your sense of self.
Yes, you can’t sleep. No, it might not be insomnia. Five possible reasons you’re not sleeping well
If you’re struggling with sleep, don’t automatically assume insomnia is the answer. Sleep expert Heather Darwall-Smith explains what else could be going on
Love someone with ADHD? 5 ways to strengthen your relationship without taking their behaviour personally
Being with a partner who has ADHD present unique challenges, but they can be worked through with understanding, compassion, and effort
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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?
Our Journal
Packed full of prompts and exercises to help you reflect on your life, find balance with the Psychologies Journal.
Wellbeing Guides
Discover special editions and guides from the publisher of psychologies magazine
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 stops you from trusting yourself?
Discover how you make choices — and what your inner voice is asking for — with our test below!
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.


