Talking to yourself: a good antidote to loneliness – or the sign of a real problem?

During the pandemic, I have gone from uttering a few words of encouragement to myself to full-blown arguments. I’m not the only one. I asked psychologists what purpose this serves

‘An ill day can still be a good day’: 10 ways to live well with long Covid and chronic illness

Being chronically ill is challenging and often upsetting – but there can be hope and happiness along the way. Start by giving yourself a break and some appreciation

Middle-aged people who sleep six hours or less at greater risk of dementia, study finds

UCL data of 10,000 volunteers shows cases 30% higher among those who slept poorly in their 50s, 60s and 70s

Brain fog: how trauma, uncertainty and isolation have affected our minds and memory

After a year of lockdown, many of us are finding it hard to think clearly, or remember what happened when. Neuroscientists and behavioural experts explain why

Hairdressers in England face ‘stampede’ for post-lockdown appointments

With salons reopening on 12 April, customers now demand bold new looks to show off this spring

Contraception blood-clot risk: ‘public need better access to advice’

Health experts in UK say risk remains low, as social media debates shift from AstraZeneca jab to hormonal contraceptives

A year of emotional eating? Don’t feel guilty. We need comfort, not ketosis

Many of us will leave lockdown a few pounds heavier than we started it, but there is no shame in finding pleasure in food, writes Emma Beddington

In brief: Unsettled Ground; Genesis; Inferno – reviews

Twins unravel their family history when their mother dies; myths, science and the origins of the universe; and a harrowing account of postpartum psychosis

Unsafe workspaces: health fears grow as staff get set for the big return

Safety reps sound the alarm over lack of risk assessments, PPE and social distancing

Screen Covid patients and NHS staff for post-traumatic stress, expert urges

Head of Royal College of Psychiatrists warns that the emotional toll from the pandemic could last for years