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 […]
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Latest articles
‘I realised I’d grown apart from my husband – one conversation changed how I saw our future together forever.’
Yoga-mad Jill* feels like she’s pulling against bike-obsessed Kevin. Is it time to end the relationship? Coach Kim Morgan discusses their relationship troubles and offers her solutions if you’re in a similar situation. Words: Kim Morgan. Images: Shutterstock. *Names have been changed Jill was a warm, expressive and confident woman. She had a youthful, ‘boho’ […]
Are you a victim of smartphone procrastination? Increasing numbers of us are, and psychologists say it’s no accident
Think your smartphone is just a harmless distraction? Experts say it’s become the ultimate procrastination tool, offering instant relief whenever work feels difficult — and completely rewiring how we deal with discomfort. If you’ve ever picked up your smartphone to quickly check one notification only to find yourself still scrolling 20 minutes later, you’re not […]
Stuck to the screen? How to help someone with unhealthy phone habits
Whether it’s a teenager glued to social media, an older relative constantly checking notifications or a partner lost in endless scrolling, conversations about screen time can be difficult. Psychologists explain how to raise concerns without judgement — and why understanding the need behind the habit matters most. Problematic phone use can affect people of all […]
Is your phone making you more negative? How screen time can shape your mood
Doomscrolling, social comparison and a constant stream of notifications can subtly influence how we see the world. Experts explain why our digital habits may be affecting our mood, anxiety levels and overall wellbeing more than we realise. Many people worry that spending too much time on their phones leaves them feeling anxious, overwhelmed or emotionally […]
Not all screen time is created equal: How to tell healthy habits from harmful ones
Not every hour spent in front of a screen has the same impact. Psychotherapist Kamalyn Kaur explains why the quality of our screen time matters far more than the quantity — and how to recognise when technology is enriching our lives rather than draining them. For years, “screen time” has been treated as something to […]
How often can you check your phone without being rude? The unwritten, constant evolving rules of modern smartphone use
From reply times to “phubbing”, our relationship with phones is still evolving. Psychotherapist Kamalyn Kaur explains why good screen etiquette isn’t about strict rules, but about protecting attention, relationships and real-world connection. Smartphones have transformed the way we communicate, work and socialise, but the social rules around using them are still catching up. From the […]
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 […]
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.
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 […]
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 […]
How to make friends (and keep them!)
Making new friends as an adult can be tricky. Here, experts share their advice on making friends, and give 6 tips to keeping them, too.
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.
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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’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.


