How to Show ‘Wise Compassion’ to Struggling Loved Ones
Being truly supportive of someone who is in pain requires strength, patience, self-knowledge, and discipline, “Dear Therapist” writes.
Do Olympic-Level Achievements Make People Happy?
The promise of success can propel us forward, but it comes with pitfalls that can undermine the satisfaction of actually succeeding.
What Immigrants Know About Happiness
The act of migration involves taking risks in pursuit of a meaningful reward and having faith in the future. Everyone should try to live more like that.
A Surprising Side Effect of Giving Birth
The curious link between motherhood and dental problems
I Found the Feminism I Was Looking For in the Lost Writings of a 17th-Century Priest
François Poulain was ahead of his time—and ours.
The Long Recovery After a Spouse Gets Out of Prison
PTSD in the formerly incarcerated has been widely studied. But what follows the “vicarious imprisonment” of their free-world romantic partners?
The Limits of Sex Positivity
American culture still treats disinterest in sex as something that needs to be fixed. What if any amount of desire—including none—was okay?
The Awful Coincidence of 2 Friends Who Got the Same Cancer
“I think we were meant to walk through this together.”
Those Who Share a Roof Share Emotions
Feelings are contagious—but you can help your loved ones when they’re sad without sacrificing your own good mood.
Perfectionism Can Become a Vicious Cycle in Families
Mothers and fathers risk passing down this tendency to the next generation, creating a pattern of dissatisfaction.
Different Cultures Define Happiness Differently
Well-being is far from universal. Here are four models to help you understand the world—and your own mind.
We Could Have Changed the World
The upheaval of the pandemic was an opportunity to imagine a better society. Instead, we’re rushing back to “normal.”
It’s Hard to Make Friends When You Move to a New Town
“I think we both experienced some culture shock coming here. It was lonely.”
The Link Between Self-Reliance and Well-Being
Individualism is about having the freedom to be who you are—not going it alone.
The Two Ways to Raise a Country’s Birth Rate
Give parents money and time.
Why In-Law Relationships Can Be So Challenging
Tough conversations provide opportunities for pain and conflict, but also for growth and healing, “Dear Therapist” writes.
3 Rules for Politeness During a Confusing Social Transition
Our pre-pandemic social manners have been upended. But although etiquette is always in flux, its principles should be timeless.
The Happy Patriot, the Unhappy Nationalist
Having pride in your country can lead to greater well-being, but only if you do it right.
We’re Learning the Wrong Lessons From the World’s Happiest Countries
Hygge alone will not save us.
How 1 Friend Can Change the Course of Your Life
“Judo found my house for me in Seattle. Judo gave me all my initial friends [there]. Judo introduced me to my girlfriend, who I live with currently. Judo introduced me to a guy who eventually helped me get my job.”