‘You think: Do I really need anyone?’ – the hidden burden of being a hyper-independent person

Self-reliance is often encouraged over asking others for help in the modern world. But doing everything yourself can be a sign that you are scared of intimacy

I took up paddleboarding in my 60s. Now I feel calm in the water and strong on land

It was a wobbly start. But every time I haul my paddleboard out I feel my balance and confidence improving

Wear shades in winter and follow the 20-20-20 rule: experts on 13 ways to look after your eyes

Everyone should get their eyes tested every two years, but there are other ways to optimise your vision, say ophthalmologists – and yes, eating carrots may help

Criminals exploit ‘stigma and embarrassment’ to sell fake erectile dysfunction drugs

Authorities have seized almost 20m fake pills since 2021, many containing incorrect doses or toxic ingredients

Exercise can be ‘frontline treatment’ for mild depression, researchers say

Biggest improvements seen in young adults and new mothers, with group activities of most benefit

My patient’s near-death experience in hospital left me with worry and guilt. This is how vicarious trauma starts

Afterwards, my team and I kept going without ever discussing the event. But something felt heavy. And because I couldn’t name it, I didn’t know how to deal with it

Heather contracted HIV on an overseas holiday. Women like her are more likely to be overlooked by doctors in Australia

Although early HIV diagnosis is crucial for longevity, women are more likely to be diagnosed late because they are not considered a high-risk group

The troubling rise of longevity fixation syndrome: ‘I was crushed by the pressure I put on myself’

This unofficial diagnosis describes the anxiety-driven, compulsive obsession with living as long as possible. While it might seem healthy to monitor your diet, exercise and biomarkers, it can come at a huge emotional cost

Office buzz: UK employers turn to beehives to boost workplace wellbeing

Providers report rise in demand as companies seek mental health benefits and increased sense of community

The sneeze secret: how much should you worry about this explosive reflex?

It is one of the most powerful involuntary actions the human body can perform. But is a big sneeze a sign of illness, pollution or something else entirely?