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Communication and language

Abstract stone sculpture of a human figure with folded arms against a grey background.

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How to say no

It’s a little word, but if you’re a chronic people pleaser it can be so tricky to say it. These tips and tricks will help

by Shayla Love

A black-and-white photo of a man using a megaphone over the sea with ships in the distance.

Communication and language

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How to find your voice

Do you sometimes feel silenced or afraid to speak up? Learn to use your natural voice and be heard for who you really are

by Sophie Scott

Photo of a man holding a child outdoors at a warmly lit gathering, string lights in the background.

Stigma and taboo

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How to talk about your mental illness

Careful disclosure can be highly rewarding. Use tips from the Honest, Open, Proud programme to share your story

by Carla Kundert & Patrick W Corrigan

Photo of a person in a red hat and glasses sitting thoughtfully in a cafe with a coffee and a phone on the table.

Emotion regulation

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How to take things less personally

Always blaming yourself or assuming others think ill of you? A CBT therapist shares ways to break these self-critical habits

by Joel Minden

Photo of a crowded London Underground train with passengers standing and sitting, holding onto poles and looking at phones.

Communication and language

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How to ask for help

You’re not weak or lazy – everyone needs support. Follow these steps to learn when to reach out, who to go to and what to say

by Debbie Sorensen

Painting of a man in a hat leaning on a table with a wine bottle and fruit, set against a brown background.

Addiction

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How to talk about someone’s substance use

Worried about someone’s drinking or drug use, but not sure what to say? There’s a counselling approach that can help

by K Michelle Peavy

Photo of a close-up of an intimate moment between two people lying close, with one hand gently touching the other’s hair.

Sex and sexuality

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How to talk about sexual desires

It’s not always easy to open up about sex. But letting a partner in on your wants and fantasies can strengthen your bond

by Sarah Hunter Murray

Photo of two women in front of a wall mural showing men reading newspapers, with a construction worker nearby.

Communication and language

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How to have more meaningful conversations

Be brave enough to share, kind enough to listen, and you can escape the shallows of small talk to dive deep with another

by Lucy Foulkes

Vintage poster by Roger Broders showing a seaside scene with sunbathers and swimmers on Antibes beach.

Learning and education

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How to learn a language (and stick at it)

Forget about fluency and how languages are taught at school: as an adult learner you can take a whole new approach

by John Gallagher

Marble bust of a man with a solemn expression, Roman style, displayed against a dark background.

Communication and language

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How to speak in public

Public speaking can feel like an ordeal, but take a lesson from the ancients: it’s a skill you can develop like any other

by John Bowe

Expressionist painting of two figures; one in a striped robe with a pipe, the other seated in a dress, both vibrant colours.

Conflict and conflict resolution

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How to have a difficult conversation

Avoidance will only foster more conflict. Aim for a shared understanding with these techniques from an expert mediator

by Adar Cohen

Photo of two people in a pool, wearing floral swim caps using inflatable pink flamingo rings, with bunting overhead.

Friendship

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How to make friends as an adult

Friendships give us so much. Be bold, take the initiative, and you’ll be surprised how many people are pleased to connect

by Marisa G Franco