Well-being

Watching a video of a therapy dog for just five minutes can meaningfully lower stress levels, a new study shows, offering a simple, stigma-free option for those reluctant to seek traditional mental health support.

Spending a few minutes a day doing simple things that bring joy increases well-being, decreases stress, and improves sleep, according to a new study. It shows you don’t need to invest in time-consuming well-being interventions for them to be effective.

Self-care life hacks, claimed to improve well-being, often go viral on social media platforms like TikTok, sometimes without scientific backing. Experts have provided their opinion on six popular behaviors, so you know what’s good.

A new study has evaluated 15 activities that protect and boost mental well-being. While most of the everyday activities looked at boosted well-being, the ones that produced the largest effect were free and easy to do.

Two groups particularly prone to social isolation – older adults and international students – felt much less lonely when they engaged in pet-focused activities, according to a new study. The cost-effective approach also boosted health and well-being.

Researchers have examined the increasingly popular practice of cold-water immersion – such as taking a cold shower or taking an ice bath – to see whether there’s any scientific basis for claiming that it has a positive effect on health and well-being.

Gamers free to interact with and explore a game world at their own pace are more relaxed and have improved mental well-being, according to new research. It could open the door to using gaming as a therapeutic tool to counter stress and anxiety.