joeberlin

In the Guardian, recent articles have been exploring the opioid crisis in America. Characterised by easy access to prescription painkillers which made people dependent on the drugs, then a subsequent crackdown which drove already addicted patients to heroin, it’s an insight into what can go wrong as society tries to cope with pain. As opioid […]

People are always looking to increase their productivity. In a world where we are often defined by our productive capacity – and how much we get done is directly linked to our ability to earn a living – being able to improve our productivity can result in higher social standing, personal fulfillment, and wealth. But

Creativity is a valuable resource. We look at the brilliant, inspired ideas of others, marvelling at their originality and boldness, and want our own brains to work that way. There’s also an inescapable air of romance around the people who dedicate themselves to a creative life, with the penniless artist, travelling writer and glamorous fashion

Those suffering with panic attacks can feel like they are completely out of control. Happening suddenly and often with no clear reason, panic attacks usually elicit a racing heartbeat, a shortness of breath and choking sensation, and dizziness or nausea. Sometimes, panic attacks make people feel as if they are about to die, and can

“Paris Syndrome” is a strange thing. Through books and films the city of lights has developed an international reputation of idyllic metropolitan beauty, full of romance, artistry and picture-postcard scenes. Yet many people don’t realise that, while still lovely, this is a city that is beset by all the usual problems of big urban areas

I spent much of my life being very proud of the fact that I was a hedonist. I considered the pursuit of fun and happiness the most important aspect of living and I took great delight in pushing my boundaries and seeking out ever more intense and gratifying experiences. And in many ways you could

Anger has a negative image.  It would be hard to find anyone who likes to feel angry or experience anger in others, but despite this anger can be very important. It helps us stand up for ourselves, perceive and address injustice, and gives us the rush of adrenaline needed to face danger when we feel

This is the start of infertility awareness week in America, an issue that effects many people throughout the world and can cause huge amounts of distress. Studies have shown that, as a group, women who experience problems with fertility are as anxious and depressed as those who are living with cancer, heart disease or HIV.

I’m constantly amazed by the amount of people who are not sleeping so well these days…the problem seems to be getting worse by the year. And even for those who seem to sleep through the night, every single one of us living in an urban environment, or spending a lot of time in front of