How to manage feelings of distress, fear and anxiety after the Bondi attack
Confronting footage of gunmen shooting into a crowd of people in Bondi made headlines on Sunday night. Two men killed at least 15 people in an act of terrorism, marking one of Australia’s deadliest attacks. Videos with confronting images and scenes circulated throughout the night and into the week. If you or anyone you know […]
Why giving up on goals is good for you, and how to know which to ditch
Aron Leah of Fried Cactus This was meant to be a big year for me. I planned to run a marathon, gain a diploma in Spanish and begin work on my next book – all while growing my social media following to promote my journalism. Even when I have felt frustrated or stressed, I have […]
Stop asking ‘How was school today?’ To raise successful kids, ask 7 questions instead
“My child won’t tell me anything about their day!” It’s a common concern I hear from parents in my psychotherapy office. They’re hoping to gain a glimpse into their child’s world. But asking “How was school today?” usually leads to a one-word answer. As a therapist and the author of “13 Things Mentally Strong Parents […]
Ways to deal with them, as per psychology
Manipulation is a subtle kind of control that can appear in personal relationships, the workplace, or also can be seen in social interactions. Manipulators tend to control the thoughts, emotions, and actions of other people for their advantage, sometimes not even being overtly aggressive. Identifying manipulative behaviour is essential to preserve your emotional safety and […]
How to say ‘no’—and get them to listen
Saying “no” is essential in parenting. But setting limits shouldn’t start and end with that one word. As a certified child life specialist and licensed therapist, I know that saying “no” is meant to help kids feel safe, supported, and understood. I often help kids understand: “Your parents aren’t saying ‘no’ to control you, they’re […]
The truth about narcissists: How to handle them, and can they change?
Looking back, the signs were obvious: an extreme need for control, a pathological tendency to exaggerate and an almost comical sense of superiority. My family member claimed to know more than everyone about everything, no matter the topic. He claimed to have the makings of a world-class teacher, doctor, writer or athlete, while also boasting […]
How to nurture the right mindset for living to 100
“I’m 87. I don’t feel 87, I don’t think like I’m 87,” declared Elaine Neuwirth on TikTok. “The most important thing is to get involved… interact with other people… have a purpose. Get up and move… Be part of the world.” Her words, now viewed by 3.6 million people and counting, capture the growing scientific […]
Don’t ask ‘How are you?’ How successful people get others to like them: Psychology expert
The worst thing you can ask at the start of any interaction is: “How are you?” You’re essentially telling the other person that the interaction will be like every other interaction. They’ll most likely respond, “My day’s been busy. Good but busy.” It’s boring and generates a social script. I’ve spent the last 17 years […]
How I get my kids to listen—in 5 seconds or less
Recently, I was talking to my two middle-school sons about the importance of listening the first time they’re asked to do something, especially when it really matters. But before I got far, my oldest interrupted, rolling his eyes: “Bruh, it’s not that deep.” “FYI, I’m not your bruh,” I replied. The exchange reminded me of […]
How to build emotional endurance, resilience
Being recognized as a resilient person feels great. Weathering the tough moments that build resilience is less glamorous. Developing emotional endurance, or the ability to withstand stress or discomfort without letting negative emotions overtake you, can help that process feel less grueling and more like an opportunity to learn and grow, Columbia University-trained psychologist Becky […]