New fiction: The Empathy Problem

Cold and calculating, Gabriel Vaughn has, in his own words, lived his whole life ‘putting my interests ahead of every other person on the planet’.

That is until he is diagnosed with an incurable brain tumour, which alters the way he feels about everything.

Extence’s tale of a life-changing transformation is unusual; a gripping look at an unlikeable character who swaps insensitivity for soulfulness.

The Empathy Problem by Gavin Extence (Hodder & Stoughton, £16.99) is out now.

New beginnings: how to beat bad habits

How do you create a truly fresh start for yourself without doubt, cynicism and old habits kicking in? Anita Chaudhuri investigates how to beat your bad habits and welcome fresh, new beginnings with open arms…

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Emotional wellbeing

New fiction: The Penny Heart and interview with author Martine Bailey

The Penny Heart is the second book from ‘culinary gothic’ author Martine Bailey. Here, we review the book and ask Martine a few questions about it…

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New fiction: The Penny Heart and interview with author Martine Bailey

Emotional wellbeing

Book Club: The Mirror World of Melody Black

Step into a novel that removes the stigma of mental illness, says Danielle Woodward

Psychologies

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Why we hide worry — and how letting it go can heal us

In a culture that tells us to keep smiling and push through, many of us bury our worry until it grows into overwhelm, anxiety and chronic stress. But acknowledging what’s weighing on our minds may be the first step toward relief. Like so many of my Gen-X cohort, I used to brace myself while walking […]

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Family & parenting / Mental health

Chaos, mum guilt, and unexpected joy: What parenting with ADHD really feels like

Parenting with ADHD can be exhausting, and mum guilt is unavoidable. But with self-compassion and practical strategies, the chaos can become creativity, connection, and joy. “Oh no — it’s World Book Day. Or Non-Uniform Day. Or a training day. I’m so sorry, darling, Mummy forgot… again.” Parenting can feel like being the personal assistant to […]

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Self / Mental health

When you don’t fit the stereotype: why ADHD in women can look different

Often overlooked and misunderstood, ADHD in women can look very different from the stereotype. Many women with ADHD appear organised and socially capable while quietly struggling with focus, fatigue and internal overwhelm. “I used to be so good at friendships. I had so many complex coping mechanisms that made me a good friend,” laughs Sam […]

Psychologies

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Mental health

Why my ADHD means I’m brilliant in a crisis — and burned out by ‘business as usual’

For adults with ADHD, high-stakes moments can bring brilliance — but routine tasks can feel impossible. Discover how the hidden “ADHD tax” and constant mental load reveal the cost of living in a world not built for you. Most people know ADHD is associated with distraction, impulsivity, and difficulty with everyday tasks. But what few […]

Psychologies

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Why my ADHD means I’m brilliant in a crisis — and burned out by ‘business as usual’

Self / Mental health

I think I might have ADHD – but is it worth getting a diagnosis?

An adult ADHD diagnosis can transform how someone understands their past, present and future, replacing blame with clarity and opening the door to self-acceptance. I’ve been debating for months — no, years — should I get an ADHD diagnosis? Is it worth it? What will I gain? I have so many of the traits, but […]

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Relationships / Mental health

The science of kindness: Why reaching out to a friend makes us both feel happier

In a world that often feels tense and divided, kindness may be one of the most powerful tools we have. Small acts of compassion can reduce stress, improve health and spread happiness far beyond the moment they happen. Some days it can feel as though the world is running on tension. The news cycle moves […]

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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

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 […]

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, […]

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I let AI into my life — and then I started to doubt my own intelligence

I finally embraced artificial intelligence as a helpful tool. But as AI took over my routine, I began to wonder if it was slowly eroding my trust in my own voice. I’ve worked in film and TV as a writer for the past 20 years, and never have I doubted my own brain as much […]

‘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

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