2 July 2026
About this episode
Health journalists Cat de Lange and Helen Thomson just want some time to themselves... but not everyone feels that way. For others, moments alone can be deeply uncomfortable. Research shows that solitude could be incredibly important for our mental health, so whether we’re craving it or avoiding it, we should probably learn how to do it right,
In this episode of Change Your Mind from New ˾þ, Helen and Cat explore the surprising science of solitude, including how it differs from loneliness and why time alone can sometimes even improve our connections with other people. They’re joined byNetta Weinstein, a psychologist at the University of Reading, UK, and co-author ofSolitude: The Power and Science of Being Alone, to discuss how much time alone is actually good for your brain. And how do you make the most of your alone time to restore your mood, creativity and patience?
Produced by Emily Bird
We want to hear your thoughts, leave a comment or send in your ideas for future episodes tochangeyourmind@newscientist.com
Find out more about the Solitude at New ˾þ:
/article/mg26134840-400-how-mastering-the-art-of-being-alone-can-boost-your-mental-health/
Make space for solitude over the holidays: /article/mg26835751-800-why-it-is-important-to-make-space-for-solitude-over-the-festive-season/
Learn more about our sponsor Alzheimer’s Society: /-dzٲ/
Sources
Mindset:
Digital strain /article/mg26935790-200-the-internet-feels-super-lonely-right-now-heres-why/
