Features

Why nutritional psychiatry is the future of mental health treatment

Research shows that putting an emphasis on healthy diet, targeted supplements and probiotics provides a hopeful way forward in treating mental health issues.

“Serious incidents” in UK hospitals on the rise

More than 40,000 serious incidents – which place patients at increased risk – have been recorded by NHS trusts and public health boards in England and Wales in the last two years.

The secret to creativity – according to science

Imagination is what propels us forward as a species, but can you train yourself to become more imaginative? The an answer, it seems, is yes.

Why boredom can be good for you

Winnie the Pooh understood the importance of allowing your mind to wander – and the science agrees. It’s time we all found the time to daydream.

How junk food puts your immune system on high alert

Intriguing new research suggests that the body reacts to a steady diet of junk food in the same way that it reacts to an acute infection – with dramatic health consequences.

True happiness isn’t about being happy all the time

Leading a happier life involves a lot more than just shying away from pain, misery or distress; it’s about accepting our humanity and individual growth through finding meaning.

Yoga in the workplace can reduce back pain and sickness absence

Employers should be encouraged to provide yoga programmes for staff in order to support health, well-being and general productiveness.

How mindfulness could give you the gift of a calmer Christmas

Make sure to find a little ‘Christmas presence’ by being kind and compassionate to everyone you have contact with – including yourself.

Loneliness could kill you

We are physiologically and psychologically primed for connection, which may be why studies show loneliness shortens our life spans and some even suggest it’s even more lethal than obesity.

Why most of us pay twice for our food

Modern intensive agriculture in the UK and US comes with many hidden health and environmental costs, which mean we are paying twice as much for our food as we think.