Cocaine Use Raises Concerns Over Growing Drug Culture on UK University Campuses

According to a report by Daily Mail (UK) on Friday, September 18, 2026, the increasing availability and use of cocaine among university students in Britain is raising concerns as thousands of young people begin their university experience during Freshers Week.

Fiona, a mother whose name has been changed, described the frightening moment she received a FaceTime call from her 18-year-old daughter Zoe at about 2am. Zoe had recently started university and was calling from a nightclub with her new boyfriend, Leo.

Fiona had initially been concerned about whether her daughter would settle into university, make friends, eat properly and cope with her studies. However, when she saw Zoe on the video call, she immediately became concerned about something else.

Fiona said she could barely understand what her daughter was saying and noticed that she appeared unusually energetic and distressed. At first, she assumed Zoe had simply been drinking alcohol. However, Fiona said her previous experience working in the City helped her recognise signs that suggested cocaine use. She noticed Zoe's unusually large pupils, unusual jaw movements and difficulty speaking clearly.

The report says that while many parents are familiar with the availability of cannabis and have heard about ketamine, fewer may realise how widespread cocaine use has reportedly become among university students.

A Loughborough University study involving students from 54 institutions reportedly found that 24 per cent had used cocaine. Professor Harry Sumnall, who specialises in substance use at Liverpool John Moores University, said cocaine is now more widely available, more potent and relatively affordable compared with many other products.

Although cocaine is classified as a Class A drug in Britain and possession can result in a prison sentence of up to seven years, Professor Sumnall said some young people no longer perceive it as particularly dangerous. He explained that some young adults see it differently from drugs that have stronger associations with addiction and dependence.

Archie, a 20-year-old student from London who was preparing to enter his final year at a northern university, told the newspaper that cocaine was common within his social circle. He said some students used it while drinking because they believed it helped them remain awake and socialise for longer.

Archie also said that some young people who experienced social isolation during the Covid-19 restrictions found meeting new people difficult. He claimed cocaine made him feel more confident when socialising. He also considered it relatively affordable compared with alcohol.

Although Fiona said Zoe had not previously shown an interest in drugs, Archie said he had experimented with cannabis and ketamine while still at school. He said cocaine had been largely absent from his experience until he entered university, where he found it much easier to encounter in student bars and clubs.

Archie said he now used cocaine on many weekends and generally did not consider his consumption a serious problem. However, he admitted that he often experienced anxiety and felt unwell the day after taking it.

The report contrasts this attitude with warnings from addiction specialists. The Priory Group says combining cocaine with alcohol can be particularly dangerous and may contribute to blackouts, impaired vision, vomiting, alcohol poisoning, aggression, anxiety and paranoia.

Fiona said she had noticed that Zoe had become more anxious, moody and tired after starting university. She initially believed these changes were caused by the pressures of adapting to a new environment and living away from home. Zoe had also lost weight, which the report identifies as another possible consequence of cocaine use because the drug can suppress appetite.

Fiona said she regretted not recognising the changes earlier. Professor Sumnall warned that cocaine can have a significant effect on mental health and wellbeing, even when it is used relatively infrequently, particularly among vulnerable young people.

The report cites a 2023 study of UK students published in Brain Sciences, which linked anxiety, depression, perceived stress and insomnia with increased reports of substance use, including cocaine.

Professor Sumnall also said drug use can involve risky decisions and impulsive behaviour that may expose young people to danger. A 2021 study involving 3,520 UK university students reportedly found associations between cocaine use and riskier sexual behaviour, lower academic grades and several psychological or emotional difficulties.

The report also highlights deaths associated with cocaine use. It states that cocaine-related fatalities across all age groups had increased by 14.4 per cent since 2023. It gives examples of university students who died following cocaine use, including Oxford University student Daniel Mervis, who died from an overdose in 2021 after developing an addiction during his first year, and Bristol University student Lucy White, who died in 2018 at the age of 24 after suffering a heart attack following cocaine use.

Cocaine-related hospital admissions have also reportedly increased, with mental health admissions connected to the drug said to have tripled over a ten-year period ending in 2018.

The report attributes part of the growing availability to the expansion of the illegal cocaine market. United Nations figures cited by the newspaper indicate that global illicit cocaine production increased by 34 per cent in 2023 to a record 3,708 tonnes. European Union data cited in the report also indicates that cocaine was 44 per cent purer in 2023 than it was in 2014.

Following the late-night FaceTime call, Fiona said she remained awake for much of the night in fear for her daughter. She wanted to travel to the university immediately but said the journey was about five hours away and she was not a confident driver.

The following day, Fiona and Zoe spoke honestly on the phone. Zoe initially denied taking drugs but eventually broke down and admitted that she had first tried cocaine during Freshers Week.

Fiona then began looking back at changes in her daughter's behaviour. During Zoe's first term, she had initially called home regularly, but those calls became less frequent. Fiona said Zoe increasingly contacted her mainly to request money. Fiona had assumed the money was needed for normal student expenses but later realised some of it had supported Zoe's growing cocaine use.

According to Fiona, Zoe's drug use increased after she began dating Leo. His relatively wealthy group of friends reportedly regarded cocaine as part of their regular nightlife. Zoe did not usually purchase the drug herself but obtained it through Leo's friends, who reportedly sourced it through social media contacts or other acquaintances.

Professor Sumnall said some young people may feel more comfortable obtaining drugs through friends or friends of friends because they believe this reduces the risks associated with buying directly.

Archie described a similar experience, saying that although he had previously tried cannabis and ketamine, he had rarely encountered cocaine before university. He said student bars and clubs made it easier for students to find people who could supply it.

The report also cites research indicating that peer influence plays a role in drug use among some students. The SOS report reportedly found that 44 per cent of respondents believed students took drugs to fit in with their peers, while 12 per cent said they had personally tried drugs because people around them were using them.

Zoe told her mother that she had found it difficult to fit into a university environment where many students came from private-school backgrounds. Fiona said this made her recall her own experiences among wealthy City professionals when she was younger.

By the time of the nightclub phone call, Fiona said Zoe had been using cocaine several times during most weekends. Zoe was reportedly experiencing low mood, anxiety and exhaustion and had begun feeling that taking more of the drug was the only way to feel better.

When Zoe returned home, Fiona considered asking her to remain there and leave university because she feared her daughter's condition could deteriorate. However, Zoe wanted to continue her studies and agreed to seek help from the university's student wellbeing team.

Zoe began attending weekly support sessions on campus and was also able to contact the team when she needed assistance. Fiona described the support as an important part of helping her daughter regain control of her life.

Fiona also began visiting Zoe more frequently and paying closer attention to her wellbeing. Zoe eventually ended her relationship with Leo and developed a healthier circle of friends who did not use drugs. Fiona said her daughter's lifestyle subsequently changed significantly, with occasional drinks at the student bar becoming her main form of socialising.

As Zoe prepared to begin her second year, Fiona said she felt much more reassured about her daughter's safety. She hoped that sharing their experience would encourage other parents to take noticeable changes in their children's behaviour seriously.

Fiona acknowledged that parents face a difficult balance when their children leave home because they must allow them to become independent while remaining attentive to possible problems. She said she regretted not questioning Zoe more closely when her behaviour began changing, although she had wanted to respect her daughter's independence.

Fiona said she now believes cocaine and other drugs can pose serious risks, particularly for young people who are living away from home for the first time. She considers Zoe fortunate that she was able to receive help before suffering an even more serious consequence.

Osama bin Laden's son allegedly faked his death and is linked to renewed al-Qaeda threat

According to a report by Daily Mail (UK) on Thursday, September 17, 2026, a new intelligence assessment has claimed that Hamza bin Laden, the eldest son of late al-Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden, allegedly staged his death in 2019 with the assistance of al-Qaeda and the Haqqani Network, a powerful Afghan militant organisation reportedly nicknamed the “Sopranos of Afghanistan.”

Hamza, 37, was previously reported to have been killed in a US airstrike in 2019. However, the intelligence assessment cited by the Daily Mail claims that the report of his death was part of an elaborate deception intended to mislead intelligence agencies that were monitoring al-Qaeda.

The assessment alleges that Hamza has since developed a network of militants operating across parts of Asia and Africa and is now associated with plans to carry out attacks against Western targets. It warns that Britain and the United States could face threats including mass-casualty attacks, individual attacks, kidnappings, killings, sabotage and attacks against political or senior public figures.

Hamza was reportedly groomed by former al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri to eventually assume a leadership position within the organisation. According to the report, after Hamza was supposedly killed, Zawahiri instructed members of his circle to discuss his death openly during telephone conversations. The conversations were allegedly intended to convince intelligence agencies that Hamza had genuinely died.

The alleged deception was reportedly supported by the Haqqani Network, which has significant influence in Afghanistan and maintains connections with the Taliban. The intelligence assessment claims that the strategy succeeded in removing Hamza from active intelligence targeting while he remained under protection.

Following Zawahiri's death in a US airstrike in Kabul in 2022, Hamza allegedly advanced within al-Qaeda's leadership structure. The report claims that he has established militant training facilities in Afghanistan and has developed links with several armed organisations.

The intelligence assessment identifies Britain as a particular target of concern because of its longstanding military relationship with the United States, its historical involvement in the Middle East, its relationship with Israel and its commercial connections with Gulf countries.

It further warns that al-Qaeda's wider network could facilitate attacks across Britain, continental Europe, the United States and other Western interests. Possible threats mentioned include remotely supported attacks, attacks carried out by individuals inspired by extremist propaganda, attacks against aviation and transportation, and assaults on Jewish and Israeli interests.

The assessment also identifies political assassinations, hostage-taking, cyber-enabled activities and the exploitation of tensions arising from conflicts in Gaza and the wider Middle East as possible areas of concern.

According to the report, Hamza's connection to Osama bin Laden gives him particular symbolic importance within al-Qaeda. The intelligence document reportedly describes his family connection as providing a direct link to the organisation's founding ideology.

Before his reported death in 2019, Hamza had allegedly released messages encouraging attacks against the United States and its allies and calling for revenge following his father's death. The new assessment claims that his reported disappearance may therefore have served both operational and symbolic purposes for al-Qaeda.

The report notes that no body was publicly produced after Hamza was said to have been killed in September 2019. It claims that subsequent intelligence suggested telephone conversations involving members of his family were manipulated to strengthen the belief that he was dead.

The Daily Mail report further claims that Hamza was formally appointed al-Qaeda's emir, or chief, on November 14, 2022. The alleged meeting reportedly took place at the rebuilt al-Farooq camp in Kandahar, a facility originally established by his father before it was destroyed.

Representatives linked to the Taliban, the Haqqani Network, Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and militant groups from Africa and Syria were reportedly present at the meeting.

The intelligence assessment concludes that al-Qaeda should not simply be viewed as an organisation from the past. It claims the group still possesses experienced leadership, regional affiliates and an established ideological following, while instability in Afghanistan, the Sahel and the Middle East, as well as online radicalisation, could provide opportunities for further mobilisation.

The assessment says Hamza's alleged reappearance could potentially bring together different elements of al-Qaeda's network and contribute to what it describes as a renewed jihadist threat to Western countries.

Mayor Tells Journalist to ‘F*** Off’ When Asked About Dinner With Trump

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 15, 2026, Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate abruptly walked away from a press conference after a journalist questioned him about his claim that he had dinner with US President Donald Trump and his wife, Melania, at Mar-a-Lago earlier this year.

Tate had previously said that he dined with the Trumps during a visit to Florida in February. However, ABC News Australia later reported that the White House had withdrawn or contradicted the claim, saying that Tate had not actually eaten with the president and his wife.

Click here to watch it

When journalists asked Tate to explain his earlier statement, he maintained that he had already answered the question.

“I’ve already answered yes, and the matter’s private, so I’m not going to elaborate much further than that,” Tate said.

Another journalist then questioned him about how much his trip from Australia to Florida had cost. Tate became visibly frustrated, walked away from the press conference and responded with an expletive, telling the journalist to “f*** off” and adding that he had had enough of the questions.

The Trump Organisation had previously rejected Tate’s account of the alleged dinner, describing any suggestion that Trump had dined with the Gold Coast mayor as “categorically false.” The organisation also denied that Trump had attended an event directly or indirectly connected with Tate or an event associated with him.

The controversy comes as Tate’s Gold Coast constituency has previously been linked to another high-profile Trump-related dispute.

Plans for a 91-storey Trump Tower on the Gold Coast were abandoned after strong opposition, with critics arguing that the Trump brand had become too controversial in Australia.

The proposed development was expected to include a hotel, apartments and retail space and would have become Australia’s tallest tower if completed.

More than 140,000 people reportedly signed a petition opposing the project, highlighting the strength of the public backlash.

David Young, chief executive of Altus Property Group, which was involved with the development, said the political climate and negative perception surrounding Trump had contributed to the project's difficulties. He argued that the Trump brand had become increasingly unpopular in Australia.

The Trump Organisation strongly criticised the decision to halt the development and rejected the explanation given by Young. It accused him of using international events as a distraction from what it described as his own failures.

Tate also offered his own explanation for the collapse of the project, suggesting that the Trump Organisation had contributed to the problems because it was seeking to take a larger share of the profits than the developer.

The latest confrontation has once again placed the Gold Coast mayor and his relationship with the Trump brand under public scrutiny, particularly following conflicting accounts over whether he actually shared a meal with the US president.

This Is What You May Dream About Before You Die, According to Scientists

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 4, 2026, dreams and visions involving deceased loved ones, bright lights, open doors and staircases are among the experiences frequently reported by people nearing the end of their lives, according to research into end-of-life dreams and visions.

Researchers from Azienda USL–IRCCS di Reggio Emilia in Italy examined reports from palliative care professionals about the experiences of terminally ill patients during their final days. Their findings suggest that these dreams and visions are often vivid and, in many cases, comforting rather than frightening.

The study, published in the journal Death Studies, was based on responses from 239 palliative care professionals, including doctors, nurses, psychologists and hospice volunteers.

One of the most common themes reported was the appearance of people who had already died. Patients often described seeing deceased spouses, parents, other relatives or even much-loved pets.

In one reported experience, a woman dreamed that her late husband appeared to her and told her that he was waiting for her.

Other patients experienced symbolic images that appeared to represent a transition or journey. These included staircases, thresholds, open doors filled with light and people moving towards bright spaces.

Some experiences were more unusual and dreamlike, including an account of a white horse running along a shoreline.

The researchers suggested that these end-of-life dreams and visions may provide an important way for patients to explore difficult emotions surrounding death. Because such experiences can communicate through symbols rather than ordinary conversation, they may allow people to express fears, hopes and unresolved feelings that can be difficult to put into words.

The researchers believe these experiences could therefore help some terminally ill patients process their emotions and come to terms with their circumstances in ways that conventional conversations may not always achieve.

Although many of the experiences were described as peaceful or comforting, the study found that not every vision was positive. Around one in 10 reported experiences were distressing.

One particularly disturbing account involved a patient seeing a monster with her mother's face dragging her down.

According to the researchers, frightening experiences could potentially point to unmet emotional or clinical needs. These may include unresolved personal conflicts, traumatic memories or physical pain.

Study leader Elisa Rabitti noted that end-of-life dreams and visions still lack a clear cultural and clinical understanding, despite reports suggesting that they occur relatively frequently among people approaching death.

The findings are consistent with earlier research indicating that dreams involving deceased loved ones are relatively common among terminally ill people and may become more frequent as death draws closer.

Christopher Kerr, chief medical officer of Hospice Buffalo in New York and an expert who has studied end-of-life experiences, said it is particularly interesting that the people who appear in these experiences are often those who provided the patient with love and a sense of security during their lives.

The study also found that dreams involving preparation for death were common. Some patients described experiences involving packing belongings, preparing for a journey or getting onto a bus, which may symbolically represent the feeling of preparing to leave.

Kerr also noted that some veterans experience end-of-life dreams in which past wounds, difficult experiences or emotional burdens appear to be addressed.

Overall, the researchers say these vivid dreams and visions may play a meaningful role in how some people approach the end of life. While the experiences vary greatly from person to person and should not be interpreted as proof of what happens after death, the research suggests that they can sometimes provide comfort, emotional processing and a sense of connection during a person's final days.

Do You Have ‘Ferritin Face’? 9 Warning Signs You May Be Low on Iron

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 4, 2026, a new health trend circulating online claims that people can identify low iron levels simply by looking at their face. The trend, often referred to as “ferritin face”, has attracted attention on social media, although it is important to note that it is not a recognised medical condition and cannot be used on its own to diagnose iron deficiency.

Ferritin is a protein responsible for helping the body store and release iron. When ferritin levels are low, it can indicate that the body's iron reserves are running low.

Some people with low iron may develop a paler or washed-out complexion, more noticeable dark circles, dry or dull-looking skin and cracked lips. Pale skin can occur with iron-deficiency anaemia because there is less haemoglobin available to give blood its normal colour.

However, these changes in appearance are not necessarily caused by low iron. Dehydration, hormonal changes and the natural ageing process can also affect the appearance of the skin.

One of the most common signs associated with iron deficiency is persistent tiredness. While everyone can feel exhausted after a busy period, iron deficiency may cause fatigue severe enough to interfere with ordinary daily activities.

Iron is necessary for producing haemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that transports oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are insufficient, people may experience ongoing tiredness, reduced energy and difficulty concentrating.

Nutritional biochemist and nutritionist Jamie Christie explained that many symptoms of low iron can be difficult to recognise because they often develop gradually. Someone may simply notice that normal activities are becoming more tiring or that concentration is becoming harder without realising that their diet or iron levels could be involved.

However, fatigue can also result from several other medical conditions, including other forms of anaemia, an underactive thyroid and chronic kidney disease. Sleep apnoea can also produce similar symptoms.

Shortness of breath and heart palpitations are other possible signs of iron deficiency. When the blood does not carry enough oxygen, the body may attempt to compensate by making a person breathe faster and causing the heart to beat more rapidly.

Despite this, unexplained breathlessness or persistent heart palpitations should not automatically be blamed on low iron. Because these symptoms can have many possible causes, they should be discussed with a medical professional.

Iron requirements vary according to age and sex. In the UK, the NHS recommends 8.7mg of iron daily for men aged 19 and over and women aged 50 and above, while women aged 19 to 49 are advised to consume 14.8mg each day.

Women who experience heavy menstrual periods can lose more iron and may be at greater risk of deficiency. However, many people can obtain sufficient iron through their diet.

Foods containing iron include red meat, beans and other pulses, nuts and dried fruits. Green vegetables can also provide iron, and consuming them alongside foods rich in vitamin C can help the body absorb more of the mineral.

Tea and coffee, as well as some dairy products and foods containing high levels of phytic acid, can interfere with iron absorption, so consuming them in moderation may be helpful when trying to maximise iron absorption.

Headaches are another possible symptom of iron-deficiency anaemia. The NHS recognises headaches as a common symptom, while some research has explored a possible connection between iron and the production of serotonin, a chemical in the brain associated with migraines.

Nevertheless, headaches are extremely common and do not automatically indicate an iron problem. If frequent headaches occur alongside tiredness, breathlessness or other symptoms associated with iron deficiency, speaking to a doctor about testing may be appropriate.

Hair thinning or increased hair shedding can also occur when iron levels are low. When there is insufficient iron, less oxygen may reach the hair roots, potentially affecting healthy hair growth.

However, hair loss has many possible causes, including stress, hormonal changes, thyroid disorders and other nutritional deficiencies. Severe or persistent hair loss, particularly when it lasts for more than six months, causes bald patches or occurs alongside extreme fatigue or unexplained weight changes, should be assessed by a doctor.

Problems affecting the mouth and tongue may also sometimes be linked to low iron. These can include sores or cracks at the corners of the mouth, a condition known as angular cheilitis.

Other less common symptoms listed by the NHS include changes in taste, difficulty swallowing and glossitis, in which the tongue can become sore, red or unusually smooth and glossy.

Spoon-shaped nails, medically known as koilonychia, are another possible sign. This occurs when the nails become unusually flat or develop a concave shape, with the edges appearing to curve upwards.

Spoon-shaped nails can be associated with iron-deficiency anaemia, particularly when they occur alongside symptoms such as fatigue or shortness of breath. There are other possible causes, but treating the underlying problem can allow the nails to return to their normal appearance.

Itchy skin, medically called pruritus, is also listed as a less common symptom of iron-deficiency anaemia. Reduced moisture retention and changes to the skin barrier may contribute to the problem.

However, itchy skin can be caused by numerous conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. When itching is related to low iron, it may be more widespread and occur without a prominent rash, while other signs such as pale skin and fatigue may also be present.

Tinnitus, which can involve ringing, buzzing, hissing, whistling or roaring sounds in the ears, is another potential indicator of low iron stores.

There are many possible causes of tinnitus, and experiencing it does not prove that someone has an iron deficiency. However, research involving almost 89,000 women with iron-deficiency anaemia found an association between the condition and newly developed tinnitus. More research is still needed to understand the relationship.

Anyone who notices persistent or troublesome tinnitus should seek medical advice rather than assuming that low iron is responsible.

If several of these symptoms sound familiar, it is important not to start taking large doses of iron supplements without medical advice. A doctor can discuss your symptoms, lifestyle and medical history and may recommend blood tests to determine whether your iron levels are low.

A full blood count can help identify anaemia, while a ferritin test can provide information about the body's iron stores.

It is also important to identify why iron levels are low rather than simply replacing the missing iron. Heavy menstrual bleeding and pregnancy are common causes, but iron deficiency can also result from blood loss in the stomach or bowel.

Doctors may recommend additional investigations to identify the underlying cause. These can include tests designed to detect hidden blood in stool samples.

Although iron supplements can be useful when a deficiency has been confirmed, taking more iron than necessary can cause problems. Excessive amounts may result in constipation, nausea, vomiting and stomach pain, while very high doses can be dangerous.

Anyone concerned about possible iron deficiency should therefore seek advice from a qualified medical professional rather than relying solely on appearance or social media trends.

I Quit Social Media for Four Weeks – It Changed the Way I Dream

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 10, 2026, for most of her life, Isabel Fraser says she never considered herself dependent on substances such as alcohol, illegal drugs or even vaping. She quit vaping on New Year’s Eve in 2023 after years of using blueberry-flavoured disposable vapes, and because it was relatively easy, she assumed she had never been addicted.

But she eventually realised there was another form of dependency that did not come with obvious physical warning signs: social media.

Although concerns about the psychological effects of excessive social media use have become increasingly common, Isabel says she belonged to a generation that was largely overlooked when it came to growing up alongside rapidly developing digital platforms.

Her parents had established sensible boundaries, but during lockdown at the age of 16, she downloaded TikTok and began spending hours scrolling through videos. She eventually deleted the app after recognising that her usage was becoming unhealthy.

The social media experience had changed considerably by 2018, when Musical.ly evolved into TikTok. The short-video format became extremely popular and was subsequently adopted by other major platforms through features such as YouTube Shorts, Snapchat Spotlight and Instagram Reels.

According to Isabel, social media had gradually transformed from a tool for keeping in touch with friends into a system designed to compete aggressively for people's attention through algorithms that encourage continuous scrolling.

She says she still experienced the familiar feeling of watching one video after another in the hope of finding something particularly entertaining, only to realise that hours had disappeared. The attraction is partly linked to the brain's response to rewarding content and the dopamine associated with discovering something enjoyable.

The amount of time people spend online has also become a growing concern. Isabel cites research showing that adults in the UK spend an average of around two hours and 21 minutes each day scrolling, messaging, posting and sharing content.

After one particularly shocking day when her own screen time reached seven hours, she decided to take a complete break from social media for four weeks.

In the first week, she chose to stop using the platforms altogether. Snapchat, Instagram and YouTube were removed from her phone.

Initially, she felt noticeably lighter and was surprised by how productive she became. She did not immediately miss the apps and found that her surroundings no longer had to compete with her phone for her attention.

However, by the second day, she noticed herself instinctively reaching for her phone and tapping the area where Instagram had previously been. She realised that the habit had become almost automatic.

Instead of spending so much time online, she began reading more and even started watching television series again, something she had not regularly done for years.

The positive effects did not last completely, however. After several days, she began feeling that something was missing. She was no longer automatically aware of what her friends were doing and started experiencing the fear of missing out.

The second week proved to be more difficult. When she met friends, she noticed that they sometimes discussed events she knew nothing about because she had not seen them online.

She had to change her approach and began making more effort to contact friends directly. Although she had previously disliked making phone calls, she started to appreciate the value of speaking to people rather than relying entirely on social media.

Her sleeping habits also changed. Previously, she often spent time watching Reels before falling asleep or drifting off while watching YouTube. Without those distractions, she began reading several chapters of a book during her commute and continued reading before bed.

She found that replacing late-night scrolling with reading made her mind feel considerably quieter. Her dreams became less vivid and she began waking up feeling more refreshed.

By the third week, Isabel noticed an even greater difference. She felt that her mind was becoming calmer and that the mental fog she often experienced in the mornings was disappearing.

She found herself struggling less to remember words and became more aware of what was happening around her.

With more free time, she also returned to journalling. She began keeping a gratitude journal in which she recorded three positive things she noticed each day, such as seeing a cute dog on a train, receiving a compliment from a colleague or spotting a beautiful cloud.

She realised that many of these small moments would previously have passed unnoticed because she had been using every spare second to scroll through her phone.

There were still moments when she became bored, and she admitted that she sometimes watched YouTube on her computer. However, she felt that watching a longer video on a laptop was very different from endlessly consuming five-second clips at high speed.

By the fourth week, Isabel says she had become completely convinced by the benefits of taking a break. She started watching films on television without constantly checking her phone.

Previously, she would divide her attention between a film and her phone, occasionally missing important dialogue and having to rewind. Now she could watch the entire film without being distracted.

Although she still experienced occasional fear of missing out, the feeling had become much weaker. She had also developed a comfortable routine of regularly checking in with people she cared about rather than depending on social media to know what was happening in their lives.

She found that she had more time, a broader perspective, a calmer mind and better sleep. Overall, she felt noticeably happier.

At the end of the four weeks, however, Isabel was preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime trip with a friend and wanted to document and share the experience, so she decided to reinstall Instagram.

This time, she created a strict rule for herself: she would not watch Reels. She managed to stick to it and felt that, for the first time in years, she was controlling her use of the platform rather than allowing the platform to control her.

After returning from the trip, however, she noticed old habits beginning to return. She found herself waiting for Instagram to load during her commute, scrolling before bed and becoming less present in her surroundings.

As a result, she deleted Instagram once again because she recognised it as the platform most likely to become unhealthy for her.

Looking back on the experience, Isabel says she would encourage others to consider taking a break from social media. She believes a digital detox can give the mind an opportunity to slow down and reset.

After four weeks away from social media, she says she is now better able to use it without feeling controlled by it. The experience has helped her regain a sense of balance and made it easier for her to put her phone down when she wants to be fully present in real life.

The Routine Question Doctors Ask That Patients Absolutely ‘Despise’

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 11, 2026, during a visit to the doctor, patients usually expect to explain their symptoms while the doctor takes notes and works towards identifying what may be wrong. But there is one question commonly asked by doctors that has left many patients frustrated: “What is it you’d like me to do?”

The question, which is frequently used by NHS doctors, has attracted criticism from patients who believe they are visiting a medical professional precisely because they need guidance, diagnosis and treatment.

TikToker Charlie B, who lives with endometriosis and fibromyalgia, recently expressed her frustration after being asked the question repeatedly during medical appointments. Many people responded to her post, saying they had experienced similar feelings.

One commenter said they disliked being asked what they wanted the doctor to do because they were not medical professionals. Another sarcastically suggested that the doctor should provide the answer, since they were the person who had spent years studying medicine. Others described the question as condescending and demoralising, with some even comparing it to something they might hear from a manipulative partner.

However, GP and therapist Ben Davis explained that there is a professional reason doctors ask about a patient's expectations.

According to Dr Davis, the question forms part of GP training and is linked to a patient-centred approach known as “ideas, concerns and expectations”, commonly abbreviated as ICE.

The framework is designed to help doctors understand what patients think may be happening, what worries them and what they hope will happen during the consultation. Asking what the patient would like the doctor to do helps establish their expectations.

Dr Davis explained that failing to ask the question could lead a doctor to make assumptions about what type of investigation, treatment or medical intervention the patient wants. Some patients, for example, may simply be looking for reassurance rather than medication or further tests.

However, the approach does not always work perfectly. Some patients say they clearly communicate their concerns and request medical intervention but still feel that their symptoms are not properly addressed.

The issue is particularly significant for patients whose conditions can take a long time to diagnose. In 2025, Jess’s Rule was introduced to encourage GP teams to reconsider a diagnosis when a patient attends three times with the same symptoms or concerns.

The initiative followed the death of Jessica Brady, who died from cancer in December 2020 at the age of 27. She had reportedly attended her GP practice 20 times during the five months before her death, but her illness was not identified.

Endometriosis is another condition where patients can face prolonged delays. The average time for diagnosis is currently around nine years and four months, while 39 per cent of women reportedly visit their GP at least 10 times before endometriosis is suspected.

Dr Davis acknowledged that, in circumstances like these, asking a patient what they want the doctor to do can easily be misunderstood.

He said he understands why patients may find the question frustrating or condescending, particularly because many people attend medical appointments expecting the doctor to provide answers and recommend the appropriate course of action.

To avoid confusion, Dr Davis said he sometimes explains that he already has ideas about what could be useful but wants to understand what the patient hopes will happen during the appointment.

He has encountered patients who become irritated when asked about their expectations, with some responding that determining what should happen is precisely why they came to see a doctor.

Despite this, Dr Davis believes understanding a patient's expectations is an important part of creating an effective treatment plan. He said the question may sometimes be misunderstood, but knowing what a patient thinks could help allows the doctor and patient to work together towards a suitable plan.

I Stopped Drinking Water So I Wouldn’t Need to Use the Toilet

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 12, 2026, Melissa Parker says her struggle to find accessible toilets while living with cerebral palsy led her to drastically reduce her water intake for more than 20 years because she feared becoming a burden to others.

She remembers being on a family holiday in Spain as a child when she desperately needed to use the bathroom. After asking a relative for help, she was told it would be better if she could hold it. The reaction made her feel that needing an accessible toilet was an inconvenience to other people.

At just 12 years old, Melissa decided to stop drinking water. She believed that if she drank less, she would not need to use the toilet as often and would therefore cause fewer problems for those around her.

Melissa was born with a brain injury that resulted in cerebral palsy, leaving her dependent on a wheelchair. Throughout her childhood, she was often described as brave, but she says this contributed to her feeling that she had to hide her struggles and avoid drawing attention to her needs.

Accessible toilets remained a major source of anxiety. They could be located far away, while handrails were sometimes broken or unsafe. On one occasion in a hospital, she could not reach the lock on the disabled toilet door.

As she grew older, Melissa began drinking dramatically less water. She went from consuming around two litres daily to perhaps a single cup. By university, she sometimes survived on only a mug of coffee a day while studying for a law degree.

The lack of fluids left her suffering from headaches and constant exhaustion, but she assumed these problems were simply part of living with cerebral palsy.

Travelling became particularly difficult. Whenever she knew she would be taking a train, she would sometimes avoid drinking anything throughout the day because she feared being unable to find an accessible toilet for several hours.

She also recalls an incident when she was a bridesmaid at a family wedding at the age of 30. The accessible toilet was located on a hill that she could not manage by herself, forcing her to ask for assistance. She felt guilty about needing help and even apologised to a family member who had previously told her to hold her bladder.

Her experiences were not limited to family. When she was about 22, staff at a local bar became annoyed after discovering that she needed to use the disabled toilet, which they had been using to store items. They had to clear the room before she could access it.

Although restricting fluids helped her avoid some of these distressing situations, it seriously damaged her quality of life. She already experienced significant pain and fatigue, but dehydration made both problems worse.

Melissa noticed that her muscle spasms and stiffness became more severe. She was mentally exhausted, her eyes often stung from fatigue, and she developed other signs of dehydration, including a dry mouth and dry skin.

Eventually, she reached a point where she could no longer get out of bed or dress herself. Constant headaches and exhaustion made it difficult for her to work as a freelance journalist or carry out everyday activities.

She describes that period as the lowest point she had ever experienced physically and emotionally. She would sometimes spend hours staring at a wall because she felt completely drained and as though her body was shutting down.

About two years ago, when she was 32, her symptoms became dramatically worse. Her muscle spasms and stiffness intensified until she was in constant pain. She also struggled to eat because of severe nausea, while her longstanding headaches became so intense that she could no longer write.

There was no single moment when Melissa suddenly realised that dehydration was contributing to her problems. Instead, she gradually began trying to reintroduce fluids because she was barely functioning and was desperate to find something that could improve her condition.

However, drinking water initially made her feel so nauseated that she would often vomit. The experience was frightening and painful, but she eventually came across a Reddit discussion about electrolytes, minerals such as sodium and potassium that help the body maintain fluid balance.

Although the post was not medical advice, it gave her the idea that electrolytes might help with her nausea. She began taking dissolvable electrolyte tablets with water and eventually found that she could drink without vomiting.

After several days, she began noticing improvements and continued increasing her water intake. Within weeks, the spasticity in her arms had reduced significantly, the vomiting had stopped and her headaches became less severe.

Melissa stresses that rehydration did not cure her cerebral palsy, but it made her symptoms much easier to manage. Reduced pain helped her sleep better, which also improved her general wellbeing.

Looking back, she regrets restricting her water intake for more than two decades simply because she was afraid of being an inconvenience. She believes she should never have blamed herself for needing access to a bathroom.

She also feels that medical professionals should have warned her about the dangers of dehydration and how it could worsen her symptoms, as well as the serious health complications associated with severe dehydration, including seizures and kidney failure.

Melissa says she does not want anyone else with a disability to feel compelled to dehydrate themselves simply to make life easier for other people. In her view, accessibility problems and negative attitudes continue to exist, but people with disabilities should not be expected to sacrifice their health or change their basic needs to make others more comfortable.

She believes that drinking water and having access to a toilet are basic human needs, and nobody should feel forced to choose between staying hydrated and avoiding the inconvenience of finding an accessible bathroom.

My ‘Dirty Secret’ Condition Nearly Ruined My Life

According to a report by Metro (UK) on September 6, 2026, Leah Charles-King has opened up about her long and difficult experience living with bipolar disorder, revealing how stigma, misdiagnosis and inadequate support affected almost every part of her life.

Charles-King was diagnosed with bipolar disorder in 2012, but she did not publicly reveal her condition until April 2019. After finally sharing her diagnosis on Instagram, she described feeling an enormous sense of relief after years of hiding what she considered a “dirty secret.”

Bipolar disorder can involve extreme changes in mood, ranging from depressive episodes to periods of mania or hypomania. For Charles-King, the condition has involved severe depression, mania, impulsive behaviour, racing thoughts, hyperactivity, excessive spending, disrupted sleep and suicidal thoughts.

She said her symptoms began during her teenage years, but her struggles were often dismissed as normal teenage emotions. Her concerns about her rapidly changing moods and thoughts were not taken seriously, and she said the support she needed was not offered.

The situation continued throughout her twenties. One of the major depressive periods she remembers occurred after her girl group, Kleshay, lost its record deal in 2000. Another serious episode followed after she was made redundant when Disney Channel UK closed.

During those periods, she became withdrawn, stopped seeing friends, rarely left home, struggled to eat properly and found it difficult to function. Despite regularly visiting her GP and explaining how badly she was feeling, she said she was repeatedly dismissed or encouraged to simply remain strong.

Charles-King, who is a Black woman, believes she also faced what she describes as medical misogynoir, referring to the combined effects of racism and sexism within healthcare. She said that even when she expressed suicidal thoughts, her concerns were not adequately addressed.

She was eventually diagnosed with depression in 2010 and prescribed SSRIs, a type of antidepressant. However, she later realised that the medication had triggered a manic episode because her underlying condition was bipolar disorder.

The manic episode lasted about a year. During that period, she said she barely felt the need to sleep or eat and experienced an intense sense of confidence and energy. Her mind was constantly filled with ideas, and she felt almost invincible.

However, the consequences were devastating. She became unemployed for two years, accumulated significant debt and engaged in impulsive spending. She recalled receiving packages she did not remember ordering and buying drinks for people she barely knew despite being heavily in debt.

Her behaviour also damaged relationships with friends and family, and she briefly became homeless. Although mania sometimes made her feel euphoric and powerful, she said suicidal thoughts could still appear suddenly, making the experience frightening and confusing.

In 2012, her mental health reached another critical point. She wrote a suicide note and handed it to a GP receptionist, hoping the message would finally prompt urgent action. An ambulance was called, but after arriving at hospital, she said she was left alone in a room for hours while frightened and confused.

She was eventually sent home without a diagnosis, treatment or immediate support. Despite being severely suicidal, she remained on a waiting list for psychiatric assessment for three months, during which her condition deteriorated further.

When she was finally assessed, she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and generalised anxiety disorder. Although the diagnosis initially brought relief after years of struggling without an explanation, she soon became concerned about the stigma surrounding bipolar disorder.

For the next seven years, she kept her diagnosis largely private, even from some close friends. She feared that people would judge her, that she might lose work opportunities and that her credibility and career would suffer if others knew about her condition.

Over time, however, Charles-King began rebuilding her life. Medication helped stabilise her condition, while therapy helped her understand her experiences, process the past and move forward.

She eventually became tired of hiding and decided to accept her diagnosis rather than allowing it to control how she saw herself. She educated herself about bipolar disorder, prioritised stability, accepted support and developed routines that helped her manage her condition.

Her decision to speak publicly about bipolar disorder was initially not about becoming a mental health advocate. She simply wanted to stop living what she described as a double life and no longer feel as though she had to hide part of herself.

Despite previously worrying that revealing her diagnosis could damage her television career, she secured a presenting role on Channel 4’s A Place in the Sun in 2021, a position she continues to hold.

She has also rebuilt relationships with friends and family, whom she considers an important part of her support system. She later became an ambassador for Bipolar UK and used her experiences to support mental health advocacy.

Charles-King says she is now in the best state of mental wellbeing she has experienced in her life. She believes the stigma surrounding mental health conditions can sometimes be as damaging as the symptoms themselves because it can make people feel ashamed and afraid to seek help.

For her, acceptance became an important part of learning to live well with bipolar disorder. She now believes that bipolar should not be regarded as a secret or something shameful.

Charles-King emphasises that her condition does not define her entire identity. She says she has bipolar, but bipolar is not who she is. Her experience, she believes, demonstrates that it is possible for people living with bipolar disorder to build fulfilling lives and thrive rather than merely exist.

A Giggle a Day Can Truly Keep the Doctor Away: Why Laughter Is Good for Your Health

Laughter has been used as a natural form of healing for centuries, and modern science continues to confirm its powerful health benefits. According to a report by Independent (UK) on January 2026, humor has long played a role in helping people cope with pain, stress, and illness. Historical accounts show that as far back as the 14th century, laughter was already being used to ease suffering, while hospitals in the early 1900s even brought in clowns to cheer up sick children.

Today, medical experts say laughter is more than just fun — it is good medicine. Doctors explain that even a few minutes of laughter each day can improve overall wellbeing. It is free, easy to access, has no harmful side effects, and can be enjoyed anywhere, making it one of the simplest ways to support good health.

Laughter provides a quick emotional lift by relaxing the body and easing stress and anxiety. These benefits are important because long-term stress is linked to serious diseases and early death. Laughing lowers the level of cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, while boosting mood-enhancing chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. It also releases endorphins, which help reduce pain. Studies have shown that people who laugh are better able to tolerate discomfort compared to those who do not.

The benefits go beyond mood improvement. Laughter strengthens the immune system by activating infection-fighting cells and antibodies in the blood. Research also suggests that cells that help fight cancer become more active after laughter. In addition, laughing improves breathing by increasing oxygen intake, which boosts blood circulation, supports organ function, and slows the heart rate. These effects help clear the mind, reduce tension, and promote relaxation.

Laughter may also help with weight control and blood sugar management. Short bursts of laughter can burn calories and help reduce sharp increases in blood sugar after meals. While it is not a cure for diabetes or obesity, it can play a small supportive role in maintaining a healthier body.

Overall, experts agree that laughter is a powerful and natural way to support mental, emotional, and physical health. Adding more laughter to daily life can be a simple yet effective step toward better wellbeing.

Why Some People Get “Hangry” More Easily Than Others

Hunger can affect anyone’s mood, but for some people, it triggers irritation or anger much faster. This emotional reaction to hunger, popularly called being “hangry,” is more than just a joke — it has a psychological explanation.

The idea is easy to understand through everyday life. A child happily playing can suddenly burst into tears, not because of pain or fear, but simply because mealtime has passed. Adults experience the same thing, even if it shows up as impatience, frustration, or poor decision-making instead of crying.

Although hunger is a basic human experience, researchers have only recently begun to study how it influences daily moods. Most earlier research focused on people with eating or metabolic disorders, leaving out how hunger affects healthy individuals in normal situations.

To better understand this, researchers monitored 90 healthy adults over one month using continuous glucose sensors. These devices tracked blood sugar levels throughout the day. Participants also reported how hungry they felt and rated their mood using their smartphones.

The results were surprising. People did not automatically feel moody when their blood sugar dropped. Instead, their mood worsened only when they became consciously aware that they were hungry. Even more interesting, people who were better at noticing changes in their body’s energy levels were less likely to experience strong mood swings.

This awareness of internal body signals is known as interoception. Hunger signals begin in the hypothalamus, but the conscious feeling of hunger is processed in another brain area linked to emotions. Those who could accurately read these signals seemed better at controlling their emotional responses.

Why does this matter? Sudden hunger-related mood changes can affect relationships, lead to impulsive choices, and encourage unhealthy eating habits. Over time, regularly ignoring hunger cues can take a toll on both mental and physical health.

Children are especially vulnerable because they are still learning how to interpret their body’s signals and are easily distracted. Adults, too, can miss early hunger signs due to busy schedules and digital distractions, often realizing they are hungry only when their mood has already shifted.

Simple habits can help reduce the risk of getting hangry. Eating at regular times, staying physically active, and paying closer attention to hunger signals can make a big difference. Exercise, in particular, helps improve how the body manages energy and sharpens hunger awareness.

In the end, hunger usually plays a small role among many factors that shape our mood. Still, recognizing and responding to it early can prevent unnecessary stress, emotional outbursts, and strained interactions. Being mindful of hunger is a simple but powerful way to stay balanced — both emotionally and physically.

Source: Independent (UK)

Staying Single Could Be Harmful to Your Health, Study Suggests

According to a report by Independent (UK) on Monday, January 19, 2026, new research suggests that remaining single for long periods, especially during young adulthood, may negatively affect both mental and physical health.

The report explains that many young Americans, particularly those in Generation Z, are increasingly avoiding romantic relationships. Studies show that Gen Z teenagers are much less likely to have been in a relationship compared to older generations such as Gen X and Baby Boomers. A 2023 survey revealed a sharp drop in teen dating, while a 2025 study found that more than 40 percent of Gen Z men had no romantic experience during their teenage years. As a result, Gen Z has been described as the loneliest generation in recent national surveys.

A new analysis involving over 17,000 teenagers and young adults from Germany and the United Kingdom found that people who stay single for a long time tend to experience growing loneliness and reduced satisfaction with life. Researchers noted that these challenges often become more noticeable in the late twenties, a period when symptoms of depression commonly increase.

Michael Krämer, a senior researcher involved in the study, said the findings show that prolonged singlehood in young adulthood is linked to moderate risks to overall well-being.

Education and Staying Single

The study focused on individuals aged 16 to 29 and found that certain factors increase the likelihood of remaining single for longer. These include being male, having a higher level of education, experiencing lower emotional well-being, and living alone or with a parent. Researchers noted that both social factors, such as education, and psychological factors, such as mental health, influence whether people enter romantic relationships. The findings also support earlier research suggesting that focusing heavily on education can delay committed relationships.

Why First Relationships Matter

The researchers also highlighted the importance of a first romantic relationship. Participants who entered their first partnership reported feeling happier and less lonely, both in the short and long term. However, the study showed that the longer people delay entering their first relationship, the longer they tend to remain single. Experts say forming a first relationship may become more difficult in the late twenties, especially for those already struggling with lower well-being.

The Health Risks of Loneliness

Loneliness has long been linked to serious health problems. Medical experts say it increases stress hormone levels in the body, which can raise the risk of heart disease, weakened immunity, and blood vessel issues. Other health risks associated with loneliness include high blood pressure, diabetes, dementia, stroke, suicide, and early death.

Psychologists warn that loneliness places extreme stress on the body and can cause people to neglect proper self-care, leading to long-term health challenges.

Paracetamol Causes Autism Debate Leaves Pregnant Women Confused

A fresh debate has emerged over whether paracetamol use during pregnancy can cause autism, after US health officials maintained their concerns despite a major scientific review finding no clear link.

According to a report by Daily Mail (UK) on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, a comprehensive review published in The Lancet medical journal concluded that there is no convincing evidence that taking paracetamol during pregnancy increases the risk of autism or ADHD in children. The findings were widely welcomed by medical experts around the world, who described the research as thorough and reassuring for expectant mothers.

The researchers behind the review analysed 43 previous studies that examined possible connections between paracetamol use in pregnancy and neurodevelopmental conditions. Special attention was given to sibling comparison studies, which compare brothers and sisters from the same family to reduce the influence of genetics and shared environmental factors. Using this method, the researchers found no significant association between prenatal paracetamol exposure and autism.

Despite these conclusions, the US Department of Health and Human Services has pushed back, saying that concerns remain within parts of the scientific community. A spokesperson for the department referenced earlier comments by Dr Andrea Baccarelli of Harvard’s School of Public Health, who has suggested that observational studies show a possible causal link between paracetamol use during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental disorders. However, these studies were not based on controlled clinical trials.

The issue gained political attention last year after President Donald Trump and US health secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr claimed the common painkiller could be linked to the sharp rise in autism diagnoses. Many scientists strongly disputed those claims, arguing that autism is influenced by a complex mix of genetic and environmental factors.

Sources close to the US administration also criticised the Lancet review, suggesting it failed to consider all available evidence and delayed action that could potentially protect public health. However, other experts described the review as reliable and methodologically sound.

Responding to the criticism, Professor Asma Khalil, who led the Lancet review, said the research did not ignore evidence but instead prioritised higher-quality studies that are better at reducing bias. She explained that earlier links between paracetamol and autism often disappeared when stronger research methods were applied. According to her, the review supports current medical advice that paracetamol remains the safest first-line treatment for pain and fever during pregnancy when used correctly.

Paracetamol, also known as Tylenol in the United States, is widely used by pregnant women. About half of expectant mothers in the UK and nearly two-thirds in the US rely on it to manage headaches, pain, and fever. For decades, it has been considered safe and effective.

Autism is a lifelong developmental condition that affects communication, behaviour, and social interaction. Although diagnoses have risen sharply over the past 20 years, experts continue to debate the reasons, with improved awareness and diagnostic practices believed to play a major role.

The disagreement highlights the ongoing tension between scientific research and political influence, leaving many pregnant women caught between conflicting messages.

Simple Sleep Mistake That Could Raise Heart Disease Risk

According to a report by TheSun (UK) on Thursday, January 15, 2026, scientists have warned that sleeping with lights on at night may significantly increase the risk of heart disease. Falling asleep with the TV on, using bright night lights, or being exposed to light while sleeping can disrupt the body’s natural sleep–wake cycle, known as the circadian rhythm, which is important for overall heart health.

Researchers from the United States and Australia studied nearly 90,000 people by tracking their night-time light exposure with wrist-worn sensors. The participants were followed for almost ten years, during which researchers compared light exposure during sleep with later diagnoses of heart-related conditions.

The study found that people exposed to brighter light at night were more likely to develop several serious cardiovascular problems, including heart failure, heart attacks, coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation and stroke. Those with the highest exposure to light while sleeping were about 56 per cent more likely to develop heart failure and nearly 50 per cent more likely to suffer a heart attack compared with people who slept in darkness.

Importantly, the increased risk was seen regardless of how long participants slept or how good their sleep quality was. Women with high night-time light exposure were found to have a higher risk of coronary artery disease than men.

Experts involved in the research explained that constant exposure to light at night can confuse the body’s internal clock, leading to long-term strain on the heart and blood vessels. They advised keeping bedrooms as dark as possible, noting that avoiding light at night has no real downside. If some light is needed for safety, very dim lighting is recommended, as it has minimal impact on the body’s circadian rhythm.

The researchers concluded that reducing light exposure at night could be a simple and effective step toward lowering the risk of heart disease, especially for people who already have sleep problems or are at higher risk of cardiovascular conditions.

Teen, 17, Paralysed and Fighting for Her Life After Severe ‘Period Pains’

According to a report by The Sun (UK) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, a 17-year-old girl from Banbury, Oxfordshire, is fighting for her life after what she thought were severe period pains turned out to be a rare and serious medical condition.

Shakira Gorman suddenly began experiencing heavy bleeding just two days before Christmas and assumed it was linked to her menstrual cycle. Within minutes, however, the previously healthy teenager struggled to breathe and lost sensation in her arms and hands, prompting an emergency hospital visit.

She was rushed to John Radcliffe Hospital, where doctors placed her on a ventilator in intensive care. Shakira remained there for two weeks while medical tests were carried out. Doctors later confirmed that she had suffered a rare spinal stroke — a condition usually seen in people over the age of 50. Her family said hospital staff were shocked by her age, describing the case as extremely uncommon.

As a result of the stroke, Shakira is currently paralysed and unable to speak. She communicates with her family by lip-reading and using a word board. Although she is awake and mentally alert, she has very limited movement and can only slightly move her fingers.

Relatives explained that Shakira had a blood clot in her spine and has been placed on blood-thinning medication. At the beginning, doctors struggled to identify the cause because her early symptoms were mild shoulder and back pain, which she believed were related to her period.

A spinal stroke happens when the blood supply to the spinal cord is interrupted, leading to nerve damage. Depending on the area affected, the condition can cause muscle weakness, paralysis, and loss of bodily functions.

Shakira is now waiting to be transferred to Stoke Mandeville Hospital, where spinal specialists can further assess her condition and begin advanced treatment. Her family hopes the transfer will bring clarity and improve her chances of recovery, although doctors have said a full recovery cannot be guaranteed.

Her parents are spending as much time as possible at her bedside, while other family members have started a fundraising campaign to help cover medical costs, travel expenses, and loss of income. The family says they are taking each day as it comes and has urged others not to ignore sudden or unusual symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem.

Iran Provokes US With Televised Threat Against Donald Trump

According to a report by The Sun (UK) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Iran has sparked outrage after state-controlled television aired a disturbing message aimed at former US President Donald Trump, using footage from a past assassination attempt to issue a veiled threat.

The broadcast showed video from the July 2024 shooting attempt on Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, alongside a chilling caption translated as, “This time, the bullet won’t miss.” The message appeared at a time of heightened tensions, as Trump considers possible military action against Iran and continues to voice strong support for anti-government protests inside the country.

The provocative broadcast comes amid more than two weeks of sustained demonstrations against Iran’s ruling clerical establishment. Trump has openly encouraged Iranian protesters, telling them that support was coming and urging them to challenge state institutions, a stance that has further angered Tehran.

Similar threatening slogans have also been seen during pro-regime demonstrations in the Iranian capital. Protesters gathered outside the British Embassy in Tehran holding placards with warnings such as “the arrow doesn’t always miss,” echoing the message shown on state television.

Trump has repeatedly warned the Iranian leadership against harming or executing protesters, promising “strong action” if such acts continue. As tensions between the two countries deepen, Iran’s defence minister stated that the country would respond forcefully to any US attack, vowing full retaliation if threatened.

Human rights organisations report that thousands have been killed and more than 10,000 arrested in clashes between security forces and demonstrators. In response to growing instability, the United States and the United Kingdom have begun withdrawing military personnel from key bases across the Middle East as a precaution.

Reports also suggest that Iranian authorities are accelerating trials and executions of detained protesters, despite international warnings. The situation has raised fears of a broader conflict, with military movements, harsh rhetoric, and human rights concerns converging to create an increasingly volatile crisis.

Man allegedly stoned to death on Kent beach after trying to meet 16-year-old girl

According to a report by Metro (UK) on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, a UK court has heard disturbing details of how a 49-year-old man was allegedly lured to a beach in Kent and killed by three teenagers after attempting to meet someone he believed was a 16-year-old girl.

The defendants — a 16-year-old girl and two boys aged 15 and 16 — are facing trial at Woolwich Crown Court over the death of Alexander Cashford, who died in Leysdown-on-Sea on the Isle of Sheppey on August 10 last year.

Prosecutors told the court that Mr Cashford met the teenagers at an amusement arcade on the seafront, where he gave the girl his phone number on a business card. One of the boys reportedly saved the number on his phone under a derogatory name, after which messages were exchanged over two days. Mr Cashford allegedly believed he was chatting with a girl named “Sienna.”

The court heard that the first message sent to Mr Cashford stated that the girl was 16 years old. He reportedly replied with compliments, asked personal questions, and falsely claimed to be younger than his real age. He also suggested meeting up, mentioned alcohol, and expressed romantic interest. The person posing as “Sienna” then proposed a meeting and asked him to bring alcohol.

On the evening of August 10, Mr Cashford travelled to the seafront to meet the teenage girl. Jurors were told that shortly afterwards, the two boys followed the pair along the promenade. During the encounter, one of the boys allegedly struck Mr Cashford on the back of the head with a bottle.

Witnesses later described seeing Mr Cashford lying motionless while stones were thrown at his head and body. A post-mortem examination revealed severe injuries, including head and facial wounds, extensive bruising, and broken ribs that punctured a lung.

Video evidence shown in court allegedly captures parts of the attack, with the girl heard shouting abuse while filming. Prosecutors also said footage of the assault was later shared with others, accompanied by mocking messages.

The prosecution argued that the incident was not spontaneous but carefully planned, describing it as a coordinated attack in which all three teenagers played active roles. It was further alleged that Mr Cashford was pursued for a considerable distance before the fatal injuries were inflicted.

All three teenagers have denied the charge of murder. The trial is continuing.

Iran Warns of War as Trump Threatens Military Action

According to a report by Daily Mail (UK) on Monday, January 12, 2026, Iran has issued a strong warning that it is ready for war following threats from Donald Trump, who said the United States could strike Iran at unprecedented levels.

The confrontation comes as Iran faces its biggest wave of protests since 2022, sparked by economic hardship and public anger toward the ruling system. Human rights monitors claim close to 500 protesters have been killed, with thousands more arrested during a sweeping security crackdown.

Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, said the US military was reviewing powerful response options, while cautioning that further bloodshed could force American intervention. Iran’s foreign minister countered that foreign threats only worsen the crisis and accused outside forces of trying to exploit the unrest.

As protests continue despite internet blackouts, the standoff has raised fears of a wider regional conflict involving Israel and US military assets in the Middle East. While there are reports of possible negotiations, the situation remains volatile and unpredictable.

Former MI6 Chief Claims Putin Relies on Lookalikes for Security

According to a report by The Sun (UK) on Sunday, January 11, 2026, ex-MI6 chief Sir Richard Dearlove has stated that Russian President Vladimir Putin “certainly” makes use of body doubles to protect himself from assassination attempts.

Speaking on intelligence assessments and long-standing rumours, Dearlove said the use of doubles is a standard security tactic for leaders who are considered prime targets. He stressed that Putin’s risk level has grown significantly since the war in Ukraine began.

The former intelligence boss explained that Ukrainian forces have shown they can strike far inside Russia, raising fears within the Kremlin about Putin’s safety during public appearances. As a result, decoys may be used during events where security cannot be fully controlled, especially outdoors.

However, Dearlove clarified that such measures would not apply to face-to-face diplomatic meetings or sensitive negotiations, where impersonation would be too risky and difficult to maintain.

Although Russian authorities deny these claims, reports suggest that presidential security procedures have become much stricter in recent years. Ukrainian intelligence officials have also alleged that multiple trained doubles exist and are deployed selectively to reduce threats to the Russian leader.

5 simple ways to improve your eyesight naturally

According to a report by Punch News on Saturday, January 10, 2026, eyesight plays a crucial role in daily life, yet millions of people around the world suffer from avoidable or untreated vision problems. The World Health Organisation estimates that over one billion people have visual impairments that could have been prevented with timely care.

Health experts note that lifestyle factors, especially the widespread use of phones and computers, are contributing significantly to eye problems. Constant focus on screens overworks the eye muscles, while reduced blinking leads to dry and irritated eyes. Exposure to blue light and holding devices too close can also affect vision clarity, particularly in younger people.

To protect eyesight, doctors recommend eating foods rich in vitamins A and C, such as carrots and watermelon, as well as nuts and dried fruits. Taking regular breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule, wearing protective and UV-filtering eyewear, quitting smoking, and scheduling yearly eye examinations are also essential steps. With these habits, many cases of vision loss can be prevented.