If they look too good to be true, they probably are: The danger signs you might have fallen for a narcissist
They seem perfect: attentive, affectionate and completely devoted to you. But what if that whirlwind romance is hiding something more troubling? Trauma specialist Zoe Clews explains the subtle warning signs that can signal you’re in a narcissistic relationship — and why the people who appear too good to be true sometimes are. Not every intense […]
Five signs your break up was the biggest red flag (and why you have had a lucky escape)
Not every painful breakup is a sign that a relationship was unhealthy. But if the end leaves you feeling as though you’ve lost your identity, can’t stop blaming yourself or are grieving the person they once seemed to be, trauma specialist Zoe Clews says the breakup itself may reveal the clearest warning signs. Most break-ups […]
Open relationships explained: What are they, how do they work, and what is the reality behind the myth?
Monogamy is no longer the only relationship model people are choosing. From open relationships to polyamory and ethical non-monogamy, therapists explain the different approaches, how couples set boundaries, and why communication is the real foundation of any successful relationship. For centuries, romantic relationships have largely followed one accepted blueprint: two people commit exclusively to one […]
Early signs you might be a victim of emotional manipulation — that most people miss
Manipulative relationships rarely begin with obvious control. Instead, the warning signs are often subtle, disguised as love, concern or commitment. Discover the behaviours that are easiest to dismiss — and why recognising them early is crucial. No one enters a relationship expecting to be manipulated. Yet emotional control rarely arrives all at once. Instead, it […]
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Latest articles
Sexy dream or emotional nightmare? Experts reveal the danger signs to watch out for if you’re considering an open relationship
Opening a relationship isn’t a fix for trust issues or a failing partnership. As interest in ethical non-monogamy grows, two relationship therapists explain the warning signs you’re not ready —and the conversations every couple should have before taking the leap. Conversations about love and commitment are changing. While monogamy remains the most common relationship structure, […]
Seven warning signs your friend may have narcissistic traits, according to therapists
Friendships should leave us feeling supported, respected and able to be ourselves. But when someone has strong narcissistic traits, the relationship can gradually become confusing, one-sided and emotionally exhausting. The term narcissist is used frequently on social media, but experts say it’s important not to jump to conclusions based on a handful of difficult interactions. “Narcissistic traits […]
‘I thought becoming a mum meant my sex life was over — then I learned what was really getting in the way’
Is becoming a mother incompatible with having a good sex life? We spoke to Sarah Forbes, author of Mama Sex: How a Perfect Storm Created a Revolution, about the challenges mothers face when it comes to keeping intimacy alive. Words: Amy Mica Marsden. Images: Shutterstock It’s a refrain heard time and time again throughout history: […]
Do you know the difference between love and limerance? Learn to spot whether there’s a real spark or just infatuation
When attraction takes hold, it can be all-consuming — but sometimes that attraction can make us feel more insecure than happy. Writer Yasmina Floyer speaks to the experts to find out more about the difference between love and limerence and how to spot the real signs of infatuation. Words: Yasmina Floyer. Images: Shutterstock. It’s easy […]
How to disagree without damaging your relationship: 7 conflict lessons from a peace negotiator
Whether you’re arguing about politics, parenting or money, conflict doesn’t have to end in disconnection. After decades mediating everyone from couples in crisis to parties in international conflict, Gabrielle Rifkind shares seven practical ways to have difficult conversations without making them worse. Most of us don’t struggle to agree. We struggle to disagree. Whether the […]
Why your brain is wired for bad news (and how to break the cycle)
If you often assume the worst, you’re not alone. Psychologists say our brains evolved to focus on danger rather than opportunity. The good news? Optimism isn’t something you’re born with — it’s a skill that anyone can develop. If you’ve ever found yourself imagining the worst-case scenario, worrying about things that haven’t happened or feeling […]
From travel anxiety to tummy troubles: the gut health habits that could transform your next vacation experience
We asked Dr Megan Rossi, a.k.a. the Gut Health Doctor, to help us embrace the body-brain connection and discover how looking after your gut can lead to a happier overall trip! Words: Sally Saunders. Images: Shutterstock Vacations are something many of us look forward to all year long, but when the time comes it’s natural […]
Feeling left out this summer? Experts say these 5 simple mindset shifts can help you beat FOMO for good
Parties, vacations, festivals and more – watching everyone you know enjoy themselves in summer can leave you feeling down. We asked an expert how to take the pressure off and say goodbye to FOMO. Words: Amy Mica Marsden. Images: Shutterstock. ‘Is everyone having fun but me?’ It’s a question you’ve likely asked yourself at one […]
Top Reads
Six friendship red flags psychologists say you shouldn’t ignore
Friendships bring immense joy, but they also come with their own set of challenges. Here, Caroline Butterwick helps us deal with our differences and save our friendships (or let them go).
Free online event: ADHD in children – what to look for and what to do next
The Oxford ADHD & Autism Centre is hosting a free online webinar for parents and carers who want practical, straightforward information about ADHD in children.
People ask me what it’s like to parent a child with ADHD — this is what I tell them
Parenting a child with ADHD or other special educational needs is often a journey filled with self-doubt and isolation. But Olivia Kessel and her daughter’s story shows how understanding the reality of your situation can lead to powerful transformation. “I just wanted her to get dressed without a meltdown,” Dr Olivia Kessel reflects, looking back […]
How to disagree without damaging your relationship: 7 conflict lessons from a peace negotiator
Whether you’re arguing about politics, parenting or money, conflict doesn’t have to end in disconnection. After decades mediating everyone from couples in crisis to parties in international conflict, Gabrielle Rifkind shares seven practical ways to have difficult conversations without making them worse. Most of us don’t struggle to agree. We struggle to disagree. Whether the […]
Pain and stiffness are not normal parts of ageing – here are 10 ways to improve your mobility, according to a physiotherapist
Don’t let pain shrink your life – here’s how to stay strong, mobile and pain-free as you age.
Why a break up with a friend can hurt as much (or even more) than with a lover
Friendship break-ups are often quiet, gradual and difficult to explain. Therapists say the pain they cause is rooted in our need for connection, while modern life can make those losses harder than ever to escape. The end of a romantic relationship is something most people recognise. There are conversations, expectations and a familiar language for […]
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Podcast: How to believe in love, receive romance and keep the flame burning
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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
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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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