Working from home linked to rising mental health problems, study finds

 Never made it back to the office after Covid? It could be taking a hidden toll on your wellbeing.

A new study suggests the shift from office working to working from home is linked to rising levels of psychological distress - with those living alone hit hardest.

Researchers found that employees in jobs that became more remote after the pandemic experienced a rise in mental health problems, compared with those who continued working on-site.

The study, published in the journal Science, analysed data from 588,322 people across five large US surveys conducted between 2011 and 2024 - excluding peak Covid years to avoid skewed results.

Experts compared healthcare use, including mental health treatment and antidepressant prescriptions, between workers in remote-friendly roles and those whose jobs required in-person attendance.

They found that people generally reported greater meaning in their work when it involved social interaction - something often missing in home-based roles.

Workers in remote jobs showed a small but notable rise in psychological distress in the years following the pandemic.

And the impact was significantly worse for those living alone, who experienced nearly double the increase in distress compared with people living with others.

Importantly, there was no corresponding rise in non-mental healthcare use - suggesting the trend was not simply due to people seeking more medical help overall.

The researchers estimated that the rise in remote work accounts for around one-third of the overall increase in psychological distress seen over the study period.

‘Remote work may therefore be considered a significant, but not the sole, contributor,’ the authors said.

They warned that while working from home can eliminate commuting and offer flexibility, it may also remove the everyday social interactions that help support emotional wellbeing.

‘Small daily interactions with coworkers - and even brief moments such as greeting a barista - may play an important role in maintaining mental health,’ they added.

Those living alone may be particularly vulnerable, as remote working can heighten feelings of isolation and reduce opportunities for social contact.

However, the researchers noted some limitations, including that the data focused solely on US workers and could not fully distinguish between fully remote and hybrid work patterns.

Data published in March also revealed there are 850,000 more people either receiving treatment or waiting to start care compared with January 2020.

Responding to the surge, Mark Rowland, chief executive of the Mental Health Foundation, warned: ‘This is a human and economic catastrophe, costing the UK at least £118 billion a year.

‘Without an effective, co-ordinated “invest to save” approach, the mental health crisis will only get worse.’

A previous Norwegian study found people working from home more than 15 hours a week were more likely to drink alcohol than office-based colleagues.

Meanwhile, a 2021 survey by US recovery firm Sierra Tucson found one in five workers admitted using alcohol or drugs while working from home. 

Far worse than feared? US economy loses 60,000 hospitality jobs in huge blow to Trump

 The US economy added just 57,000 jobs in June, according to the latest employment report, with a shock loss of 61,000 hospitality jobs nationwide that has handed Donald Trump an awkward economic setback months before the World Cup and the America 250 celebrations are meant to turbocharge hiring.

Hiring in the US had been expected to remain relatively solid as inflation cooled and major global sporting events loomed. Analysts at FactSet forecast around 100,000 new jobs last month, while Goldman Sachs suggested the World Cup alone might swell payrolls by 40,000 positions. Instead, the headline jobs figure came in barely above half the prediction, and the hospitality sector, which should be gearing up for a tourism boom, went into reverse.

The overall unemployment rate in June was reported at 4.2%, a marginal improvement on May's 4.3%, but the stronger-looking rate masks what is happening under the bonnet of the labour market. The labour force participation rate slipped 0.3 percentage points to 61.5%, its lowest level since March 2021, signalling that fewer Americans are either in work or actively looking for it. Household employment tumbled by 507,000, meaning more than half a million fewer people told survey takers they had a job.

Economists often warn that a falling unemployment rate can sometimes be the wrong kind of good news. Here, the drop is tied to people exiting the workforce, not to an economy pulling jobseekers into work. That nuance is likely to feature heavily in the political spin war, not least for a Trump campaign that has staked its appeal on restoring what it casts as stronger, more 'American' jobs growth.

Hospitality Jobs Slump Exposes World Cup Hopes

The hospitality jobs collapse stands out. According to the data, accommodation and food services shed 61,000 jobs in June, a brutal reversal at a time when seasonal hiring is usually ramping up. Officials said the figures reflected slower-than-usual summer recruitment, a worrying sign given that the US is preparing to host the World Cup and gearing up for the America 250 commemorations of the country's founding.

Goldman Sachs had previously argued that the World Cup could lift payrolls by about 40,000 positions. On the face of it, the loss of 61,000 hospitality jobs suggests those hopes have hit a wall, or at least been delayed. It remains unclear from the latest data whether any of the forecast World Cup boost has yet materialised, and the report does not spell it out. IBTimes UK could not independently verify whether the Goldman prediction came true, so that should be taken with a grain of salt.

Other sectors did grow, albeit not enough to offset hospitality's slide. Professional and business services added 36,000 jobs, the largest single gain. Social assistance roles increased by 25,000, and healthcare posted a 22,000 gain, which was described as slower than its typically robust pace. Government-linked employment rose by 8,000.

CNBC reported that average hourly earnings ticked up 0.3% over the month and 3.5% year on year, figures that were broadly in line with consensus forecasts. That kind of steady wage growth, paired with weaker hiring, will not make the US Federal Reserve's life any easier as it tries to judge whether inflationary pressures have really cooled or are just lurking in the background.

Trump's Boasts Undermined By Grim Jobs Reality

The hospitality jobs plunge is politically awkward for Trump because it fits a pattern that undercuts his central claim of superior economic stewardship. Earlier this year, the Bureau of Labor Statistics revised its figures and concluded that job growth under Trump had been significantly weaker than initially reported.

According to that revised report, instead of the 584,000 jobs that had been expected, an average of 49,000 a month, the US economy added only 181,000 jobs last year of his term, around 15,000 a month on average. That is not just a rounding error. It transforms what his allies presented as a resilient labour market into something distinctly anaemic.

Trumpworld tried to get ahead of the bad news. In February, senior trade and manufacturing counsellor Peter Navarro appeared on Fox News' 'Mornings with Maria' to warn that the upcoming jobs report would be lower than usual. Navarro told viewers: 'The jobs report's going to come out tomorrow. We have to revise our expectations down significantly for what a monthly job number should look like.'

He then rolled out a sprawling explanation centred on immigration, claiming that when the US was 'letting in 2 million illegal aliens' it had to generate 200,000 jobs a month to maintain a steady state. Navarro alleged that during Joe Biden's presidency, 'all of the jobs that we were creating in Biden's years were going to illegals' and that 'Americans were going to the unemployment lines.'

He went further, insisting that Wall Street would need to adjust to a new normal because the Trump administration was deporting 'millions of illegals out of our job market.' Yet when host Maria Bartiromo pressed him on whether he was expecting weak numbers, Navarro insisted: 'Not expecting a weak number. I'm just saying that going forward, when we see a number under 100,000, we don't wring our hands.'

The problem now is that US hiring has fallen to 57,000 and hospitality has lost 61,000 jobs even as Trump is back on the political stage presenting himself as a jobs president. If sub‑100,000 monthly gains are, in Navarro's view, nothing to fuss about, voters staring at shuttered bars or cancelled shifts in hotels might beg to differ.

The broader backdrop is hardly gentle. Inflation and global conflict have created a twitchy environment for employers, who appear to be pulling back despite major events on the horizon that should, in theory, be good for business. The labour force participation slide hints at workers who are discouraged, retired early, or juggling unpaid care. Some may well return as World Cup construction and tourism demand kick in, but there is no guarantee. The hospitality numbers show how quickly those hopes can turn to smoke.

For now, the data leave the Trump camp in an odd position. They want credit for any good economic headline and a pass on anything ugly. The June report, particularly the loss of 60,000 plus hospitality jobs, makes that a much harder sell.

Shocking new figures show why Keir Starmer has the worst record of any prime minister

 

More than 76,000 small boat migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the Channel during Sir Keir Starmer's tenure in No 10 - a higher number than under any other prime minister. New figures exposed Labour's failure to control our borders, as Sir Keir marked his second anniversary as Prime Minister.

He entered Downing Street on July 5, 2024, the day after the General Election, and delivered a triumphant speech promising "secure borders" as part of a mission to "rebuild Britain". But as Sir Keir prepares to make way for incoming prime minister Andy Burnham, Conservatives accused him of presiding over "a disastrous two years". Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said: "Far from smashing the gangs, smuggling bosses are living openly in the UK and are claiming asylum.

"Labour have been a disaster in two years, and as the prospect of Andy Burnham rears its head over the horizon, there is little chance the situation will improve."

Official figures show 76,598 illegal immigrants crossed the Channel since July 4, 2024, an average of 105 every day.

Labour has also released an estimated 82,000 offenders early, after serving 40% of their sentence rather than 50%, under an emergency scheme to reduce prison overcrowding called SDS40, introduced in September 2024. It meant 113 prisoners a day were freed early for every day Sir Keir has run the country.

Nick Timothy, Shadow Justice Secretary, said: "It is a betrayal of victims, many of whom have not been properly informed about the release of those who have committed crimes against them."

More than 500,000 Brits are also believed to have fled the country while Sir Keir was Prime Minister, according to a dossier published by Conservatives. It showed 251,000 British nationals emigrated from the UK in the first 12 months of the Labour Government, suggesting 502,000 British nationals will have left the country over the two-year period.

But Labour paid tribute to Sir Keir on the anniversary of his premiership. Anna Turley MP, chairwoman of the Labour Party, said: "The decisions we have taken have not always been easy, and we know there's much more to do, but Labour will always do what is in the best interests of the British people.

"Today, the economy is growing, wages are rising, NHS waiting lists are falling, immigration is down, and Britain is moving forward once again.

"The most basic responsibility of any prime minister is to leave the country in a better state to which you found it. Keir Starmer can proudly say he will do just that."

In an interview this week, Sir Keir said he would "do everything I possibly can" to help Andy Burnham win the next election.

But he admitted: "Did I want it to end at this point in this way? No, I didn't.

"But I accept that with good grace."

A 101-year-old woman says this is how she lived so long

 

She prioritized rest

Sleep and relaxation were treated as essential, not optional. She listened to her body when it needed downtime.

Adequate rest supports recovery, memory, and immune function—especially over long periods.

She accepted aging

Rather than resisting change, she adapted to it. She adjusted her pace and expectations without frustration.

This acceptance may have reduced emotional strain, allowing her to navigate aging with less resistance.

She stayed mentally curious

She continued learning in small ways—reading, observing, asking questions. Her mind remained active even in later years.

Mental engagement is often associated with slower cognitive decline and a greater sense of purpose.

She avoided extremes

Whether in food, activity, or lifestyle, she stayed away from extremes. Moderation guided most of her choices.

This balanced approach may have prevented burnout or long-term damage caused by excess.

She found small joys

Rather than chasing big milestones, she focused on everyday pleasures—morning light, conversations, simple meals.

This perspective likely supported emotional balance, making life feel meaningful even in ordinary moments.

She kept a daily routine

Her days followed a loose structure—waking, eating, and resting at similar times. This consistency gave her a sense of stability.

Over time, routines can help regulate biological rhythms, improving sleep and overall well-being.

She didn’t dwell on stress

Stress was unavoidable, but she made a conscious effort not to hold onto it. She described letting things “pass through” rather than building up.

This mindset may have reduced long-term strain on her body, particularly in relation to heart health and sleep quality.

She stayed socially connected

Friendships and family interactions were a constant in her life. Even in older age, she made an effort to stay in touch with others.

Social engagement is often linked to emotional stability and cognitive health, offering both stimulation and support.

She ate until satisfied, not full

Her approach to food was guided by awareness rather than restriction. She avoided overeating by paying attention to her body’s signals instead of external cues.

This habit may have helped regulate weight and digestion over decades, reducing stress on the body without requiring strict dieting.

She never stopped moving

She didn’t follow a formal fitness plan, but she stayed physically active every day. Walking, light chores, and stretching formed the backbone of her routine, keeping her body engaged without strain.

Over time, this consistent movement likely supported circulation, joint health, and energy levels. It wasn’t intensity that mattered—it was frequency.

Putin loses most Russian troops in one month since Ukraine war began

 

Russia suffered its deadliest month of the war in June, with tens of thousands of troops reportedly killed as Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine continues to exact a devastating toll on his armed forces. Figures suggest around 26,000 Russian soldiers died during the month, while another 14,000 were injured in combat. If verified, it would mark the highest monthly losses Moscow has recorded since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

The latest estimates underline the heavy price Russia continues to pay as fighting drags on, with troops repeatedly sent into some of the war's fiercest battles. Reports from the front line have previously suggested some Russian soldiers are surviving only minutes after entering combat, highlighting the relentless intensity of the conflict.

At the same time, there are growing signs of unrest within Russia's own ranks. In one incident reported on Wednesday, nine prisoners due to be deployed to the Kharkiv region allegedly deserted before reaching the front.

The men reportedly fled in Russia's Belgorod region and were believed to be unarmed.

While Moscow continues to suffer mounting casualties, Ukraine has stepped up attacks far beyond the battlefield, striking military and energy targets deep inside Russian territory.

Several oil refineries have been hit in recent weeks, piling pressure on Russia's energy infrastructure. Even Putin has acknowledged the damage caused by repeated Ukrainian attacks, admitting his country is facing "problems".

Pressure is also beginning to emerge from within Russia itself. German Gref, the head of state-owned Sberbank, issued a rare public plea for the conflict to end while appearing on Kremlin-run television.

He said: "I think what's worrying every one of us is one and the same thing.

"I don't think there's a single person who isn't concerned about anything other than a rapid end of hostilities, that's clear."

Ukraine has continued to showcase its growing long-range strike capability, with dramatic footage showing drone operators targeting Russian positions.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has pledged an intensive 40-day campaign aimed at military and industrial targets inside Russia in an effort to force the Kremlin into negotiations.

On Wednesday, Ukrainian forces reportedly struck an oil refinery in Ufa, around 800 miles from the frontline, alongside a weapons factory in Penza. Bridges supplying occupied Crimea were also damaged during separate attacks.

Despite Ukraine's increasingly ambitious strikes, the bulk of Russian casualties continue to be sustained along the main front line. Kyiv has also regained around 260 square miles of territory this year, adding to pressure on Moscow's military campaign.

Zelenskyy said: "Peace is needed, and this is what the Russian leadership should realise. Russia must end its war."

Military analysts believe Ukraine's strategy of targeting Russia's infrastructure could have a significant impact if it continues over the coming months.

Retired US Army officer Ben Hodges said recent events showed the initiative had shifted.

He told The Sun: "It's clear to almost anybody that's watching that the momentum has shifted in favour of Ukraine. The momentum has shifted because the Russian ground operations have been stopped and the Russian Navy is barely a factor anymore."

He added: "Ukraine's long-range missile strikes are wrecking Russia's oil and gas infrastructure and if they can continue this over the coming weeks, then it will be long term damage.

"If they can sustain this, going towards the end of the year, it will be very, very difficult for the Russians to support their own operations.

"I don't think they'll be able to sustain it at this sort of level deep into next year."

Former British intelligence officer Philip Ingram also said Ukraine's growing drone capability was beginning to change the course of the conflict.

He told the news outlet: "It's taken Ukraine a significant amount of time to develop the technology, build the manufacturing capacity and build the numbers of drones that they have done.

"They're starting to have an effect because Vladimir Putin himself has admitted the difficulties that Ukrainian drone attacks are having on fuel supplies across Russia."

14 things to stop tolerating for a happier life

 We all put up with things that drain our energy and our happiness, but what if we just… let go of those things?

Our tolerance for negativity is far too high, and it’s time we start creating more space for the things that make us feel fulfilled and content. This isn’t about being selfish; it’s about setting healthy boundaries and putting yourself first. So, what are some things we should stop putting up with?

1. People who consistently disrespect your boundaries

Whether it’s a friend who constantly cancels plans at the last minute, a colleague who oversteps professional boundaries, or a family member who disregards your personal space, it’s time to stop tolerating people who don’t respect you. Remember, boundaries aren’t selfish, at least not in a bad way. They exist for your protection and the health and longevity of your relationships, to be fair. Learn to communicate your needs assertively and distance yourself from those who consistently violate your boundaries. Your peace of mind is worth it.

2. Comparing yourself to other people

Especially thanks to social media, it’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to other people. But remember, everyone’s journey is unique. Your life isn’t a competition, and comparing yourself to literally anyone else will only steal your joy and make you feel inadequate. Instead, focus on your own strengths, celebrate your achievements, and be kind to yourself. Embrace your individuality and stop letting comparison steal your happiness.

3. Negative self-talk

That voice in your head that constantly criticises, doubts, and belittles you? It’s time to silence it. Negative self-talk is like a poison that eats away at your self-esteem and holds you back from reaching your full potential. Challenge those negative thoughts with positive affirmations, focus on your strengths, and surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up. Remember, you are capable, worthy, and deserving of love and happiness.

4. Procrastination and putting things off

We all procrastinate sometimes, but if it’s a chronic habit, it can lead to stress, overwhelm, and missed opportunities. Putting things off doesn’t make them go away; it just creates a bigger pile of problems later on. Start small, break down tasks into manageable chunks, and set deadlines for yourself. The sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after completing a task, no matter how small, will motivate you to keep moving forward.

5. Toxic relationships

Relationships that drain your energy, leave you feeling emotionally exhausted, or make you question your self-worth have no place in your life. Whether it’s a romantic partner, friend, or family member, if a relationship is consistently negative and brings you more pain than joy, it might be time to reassess its place in your life. Surround yourself with people who lift you up, support you, and make you feel good about yourself. You deserve to be surrounded by positive and uplifting energy.

6. Clutter and disorganisation

A cluttered environment can lead to a cluttered mind. If your living space or workspace is disorganised and chaotic, it can create stress, overwhelm, and a sense of being out of control. Take some time to declutter, organise, and create a space that feels calm and inviting. A tidy environment can promote clarity, focus, and a sense of peace.

7. Ignoring your intuition

Your gut feeling is often your most reliable guide. If something feels off, don’t ignore it. Trust your intuition and listen to your inner wisdom. Whether it’s a decision you’re making, a relationship you’re in, or a situation you’re facing, if it doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t. Don’t be afraid to trust your gut and make choices that align with your intuition.

8. Saying yes when you really mean no

People-pleasing can be a dangerous habit that leads to resentment, burnout, and a loss of self. It’s okay to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities, values, or energy levels. Don’t overcommit yourself or feel obligated to say yes to every request. Learn to set boundaries, look after yourself, and say no with confidence. Your time and energy are precious resources, so use them wisely.

9. Holding grudges or hating people who’ve hurt you

Forgiveness doesn’t mean condoning hurtful behaviour; it means freeing yourself from the burden of anger and resentment. Holding grudges has zero impact on the person on the receiving end. It harms you more than anyone else. Learn to let go, forgive (both yourself and other people), and move on. Forgiveness opens the door to healing, peace, and the possibility of rebuilding relationships.

10. Ignoring your passions and dreams

Life is too short to live a life that doesn’t light you up. Don’t let fear, self-doubt, or societal expectations hold you back from pursuing your passions and dreams. Whether it’s a hobby, career change, or personal goal, take the leap of faith and go after what you want. You might be surprised by what you’re capable of achieving when you follow your heart and pursue your passions with enthusiasm.

11. Settling for less than you deserve

You deserve a life that is filled with joy, love, and abundance. Don’t settle for mediocrity, toxic relationships, or unfulfilling jobs. Set high standards for yourself and the people you surround yourself with. Don’t be afraid to walk away from situations or relationships that don’t serve you. Remember, you are worthy of love, respect, and happiness. Don’t settle for anything less.

12. Neglecting your self-care

Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish; it’s essential. Make time for activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul. Whether it’s reading, exercising, spending time in nature, or simply relaxing with a cuppa, incorporate some self-care into your life and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. When you take care of yourself, you’re better equipped to handle life’s challenges and show up as your best self for other people.

13. Fearing change and the unknown

Change can be scary, but it’s also an inevitable part of life. Embracing change and stepping outside your comfort zone can lead to personal growth, new experiences, and unexpected opportunities. Don’t let fear hold you back from trying new things, exploring different paths, or embracing the unknown. Change can be exciting and lead to a more fulfilling and adventurous life.

14. Worrying about what other people think

Living your life according to other people’s opinions is a recipe for unhappiness. You can’t please everyone, and trying to do so will only leave you feeling drained and unfulfilled. Focus on what makes you happy, what aligns with your values, and what feels right for you. Don’t let the fear of judgement or disapproval dictate your choices. Be yourself, embrace your uniqueness, and live a life that is true to your own heart.

Experts warn extreme heat can make these common health conditions worse

 

A hot summer day can leave anyone feeling drained. The lack of energy, difficulty sleeping and constant search for shade are experiences many people know well.

But for millions of people living with chronic health conditions, extreme heat may pose challenges that go far beyond simple discomfort.

According to health experts cited by organizations including the Cleveland Clinic, Cedars-Sinai, the American Migraine Foundation and the World Health Organization (WHO), prolonged exposure to high temperatures can place additional pressure on the body and increase the risk of complications for certain medical conditions, reports Unilad.

When the body works harder

During periods of intense heat, the body must work harder to regulate its temperature. Blood vessels widen, sweating increases and the cardiovascular system takes on extra demands to prevent overheating.

For some individuals, this added strain can affect heart health. Elevated temperatures may contribute to changes in heart rate and blood pressure, particularly among those who already have underlying cardiovascular issues.

Four conditions to watch

Medical experts say these health problems may become more difficult to manage during heatwaves:

1. Heart conditions
2. Kidney stones
3. Gout
4. Migraines and recurring headaches

Dehydration is a common factor linking many of these conditions. When the body loses fluids faster than they are replaced, urine becomes more concentrated, increasing the likelihood of kidney stone formation.

Staying safe in hot weather

The WHO recommends limiting outdoor activity during the hottest hours of the day, seeking cool environments whenever possible and paying close attention to hydration.

Experts also advise keeping living spaces cool by reducing direct sunlight indoors and improving airflow during cooler evening hours.

Fluid loss can also contribute to gout flare-ups and trigger headaches in susceptible individuals.

As temperatures continue to climb across parts of the United States and other regions worldwide, health professionals say understanding how heat affects the body could help people reduce risks and avoid preventable medical problems.