‘I dumped him because he’s anxious avoidant…’ Understanding what attachment styles really mean
Are labels like ‘anxious’ and ‘avoidant’ being thrown around too much — by people who have no idea what they really mean? Expert Laura Mucha explains all.
Relationships
Relationships can be difficult to navigate, whether its romantic, platonic, friendship or professional ties – we’ve got expert advice & experiences to help.
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, […]
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 […]
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
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, […]
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
‘Summer social overload’ is real — and here’s how to stop absorbing everyone else’s stress on top of your own
Long weekends, weddings, holidays, crowded group chats, family tension, nonstop plans — summer can quietly overload the nervous system. Discover why we absorb other people’s stress so easily, and how to stop carrying emotions that aren’t ours. Summer is supposed to feel carefree. But for many people, it can become one of the most emotionally […]
“Will you come and play with me?” Why saying yes this half term could actually be good for your mental health
From board games to Mario Kart, experts say taking a break to play with your children can reduce stress, boost connection and ease working-from-home guilt. Half term has barely started and already you’ve probably heard it 50 times: “Will you come and play with me?” Usually at the exact moment you open your laptop, answer […]
Beware the silent saboteurs: why the support of a narcissist could be quietly destabilising your confidence
Even those who appear supportive can secretly undermine your ambitions. Psychologist Dr Ritz Birah and creative coach Sheryl Garratt explain how narcissistic traits and subtle sabotage erode confidence — and how to protect yourself Sometimes the people closest to us are also the ones most likely to subtly undermine our goals. Known as silent saboteurs, […]
