mental health

There’s a moment, 26 minutes and nine seconds into Disney’s Coco, where the film’s departed souls try to clear a customs desk in the afterlife. Mary* can visualise the scene perfectly—no screen needed. Her sons, Ryder* and Murphy*, have watched the film more than a thousand times.

A comprehensive new study from the University of South Australia confirms that any type of exercise – whether it’s an early morning jog, a gentle walk, or a session of Tai Chi – can significantly enhance brain function and memory across all age groups. The research, the largest umbrella review to date in this field, synthesised findings from 133 systematic reviews, 2,724 randomised controlled trials, and nearly 260,000 participants. The results underscore exercise as an essential and inclusive strategy for optimising cognitive health, regardless of one’s fitness level or age.

US astronauts Sunni Williams and Barry Wilmore, currently stranded on the International Space Station (ISS) for an unprecedented nine months, are finally slated to return to Earth. Their unplanned extended mission, which was originally intended to last only one week, was forced to continue for 290 days after concerns with the return vehicle—the Boeing Starliner-1—led NASA to abort their scheduled return. Although they do not hold the record for the longest continuous stay in orbit (a title held by cosmonaut Valeri Polyakov, who spent 437 days on the Soviet Mir station), Williams and Wilmore now set the record for the longest unplanned spaceflight by US astronauts. This unique situation raises critical questions about the potential mental and physical effects that may arise from such an unexpected extension in space.

Anxiety disorders affect one in six Australian adults each year and often occur alongside depression and other disabling conditions. With an increasing number of patients delaying or avoiding GP visits due to cost pressures, improving treatment for those living with anxiety has never been more urgent. Recognising this need, researchers are launching the Living with Anxiety study—a large-scale investigation into the genetic and environmental factors that influence both the development of anxiety disorders and the response to treatments, particularly antidepressant medications.

In a recent statement, Gold Medalist, the agency of renowned actor Kim Soo Hyun, confirmed his past relationship with actress Kim Sae Ron, but strongly denied allegations that the two were involved prior to her adulthood. This follows growing public controversy and backlash stemming from claims made by Gaseyeon, a media outlet that recently broadcast accusations that Kim Soo Hyun had been involved in the mistreatment of Kim Sae Ron during their time together.

In this heartfelt letter, the reader shares their struggle with a recent stage 4 cancer diagnosis, while also grappling with unresolved childhood trauma involving their parents. They are conflicted about whether to tell their parents about their diagnosis, fearing they will receive hurtful comments, and are contemplating whether to sever ties entirely or continue seeking their approval.

Former tennis star and TV presenter Jelena Dokic has shared an inspiring message about the importance of inner beauty and the dangers of judging others based on appearances. In a heartfelt social media post, Dokic shared a side-by-side photo of herself, asking followers, "What is the difference between the two images?" She pointed out that the only difference was her body size, emphasizing that outward appearances do not define a person's worth.

The South Korean music industry has been left in mourning following the sudden death of singer Wheesung, aged 43. Known for his soulful voice and string of hits, including a popular cover of Craig David’s "Insomnia," Wheesung was found unconscious in his apartment late on Monday night. His mother reportedly called for emergency help after discovering him unresponsive, and he was later pronounced dead at the scene.