Tag Archives: mental health

EXCLUSIVE: Kate Middleton Set to Lean on Royal ‘Rock’ Who Lives Only 10 Minutes From Future ‘Forever Home’ as She Continues to Recover From Cancer Nightmare

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Oct. 17, 2025, Published 7:20 p.m. ET

Kate Middleton will lean heavily on one of her closest friends in the royal family, Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, as she continues her recovery from cancer. The two women are soon to become near neighbors, RadarOnline.com can reveal.

The Princess of Wales, 43, and Prince William, also 43, are preparing to move later this year from Adelaide Cottage to Forest Lodge, a larger residence on the Windsor estate described by royal insiders as their “forever home.” Their property lies just a 10-minute drive from Sophie’s residence, Bagshot Park – a proximity royal sources say will allow the two women’s already deep friendship to “grow even stronger.”

A Friendship Built on Loyalty and Trust

A palace source shared, “Sophie has been a constant presence in Kate’s life over the past year – calm, loyal, and completely dependable. She’s the one person Kate feels she can really talk to without judgment.”

“Kate’s move means they’ll be able to see each other far more often, and that support network will be invaluable as Kate continues her recovery.”

Middleton announced her cancer diagnosis in 2024, revealing she had begun preventative chemotherapy after abdominal surgery. Since then, she has stepped back from public duties to focus on her health and her three children – Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7.

According to sources, Sophie has become “a rock” for the Princess during this difficult period, offering both private reassurance and practical help.

Shared Experiences Strengthen Sophie and Middleton’s Bond

One royal expert explained that the women’s shared experiences have formed the foundation of their friendship. “They’re still incredibly close,” they said. “Both came from similar, down-to-earth backgrounds and had to navigate the same maze of royal protocol and expectations. That shared experience has created a bond and understanding between them that very few people could ever have.”

The source added that the two women’s relationship has always been rooted in warmth and authenticity. Their first public display of camaraderie occurred during a carriage procession at Royal Ascot in 2017, when Sophie lost her balance and fell on top of Middleton, and they both erupted in laughter.

A Friendship Marked by Genuine Affection

A source recalled, “It was completely natural and unguarded – nothing staged about it. In that moment, everyone watching could see their friendship was genuine and full of warmth.”

Their closeness deepened following the death of Queen Elizabeth II and later Kate’s health crisis. “Sophie stood beside Kate on the Foreign Office balcony in November 2024, only a few months after Kate had completed her chemotherapy. She gently placed a hand on her back – such a simple gesture, but it spoke volumes about the depth of their friendship.”

Another royal insider noted the pair’s friendship has taken on a “sisterly” quality. “They might be aunt and niece by marriage, but their relationship has always felt much closer than that,” the source said. “They share everything – laughter, worries, and the pressures that come with family and royal life. Sophie has become a calm, reassuring anchor for Kate at a time when she needs it most.”

Sophie’s Steady Support During a New Chapter

Insiders have also highlighted the deep trust between the two women. One said, “It’s difficult to see them simply as relatives – their connection is more like that of sisters or very close cousins. Sophie’s been a tremendous source of guidance, helping Kate navigate royal life while balancing motherhood and public duty.”

“She’s offered real comfort and stability to both Kate and William over what’s been an incredibly challenging 18 months.”

The Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to complete their move to Forest Lodge before the end of the year, with aides describing it as a “permanent base” even after William becomes King – a new chapter for the family, and for Middleton, one which will be made easier by having what pals call her “royal rock,” Sophie, close at hand.

https://radaronline.com/p/kate-middleton-recovery-sophie-duchess-edinburgh-forever-home-cancer-battle/

Soundcheck: What Struck A Chord

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Music plays a central role in life, culture, and counterculture. Research shows that listening to music reduces stress hormones, slows the heart rate, and improves mood. It is a simple way to cope with everyday pressures. People turn to music when they want to manage anxiety, recover from grief, sharpen focus while studying, or stay motivated regardless of their goal.

The act of singing or playing an instrument stimulates brain activity, strengthens memory, and builds discipline. It also creates new pathways within the brain and generates new neurons, which is important because it can protect from diseases of the mind that have no cure once the onset begins. Playing an instrument is a skill that carries over to other areas of life.

A familiar melody can unlock memories and help us express emotions that some individuals can’t articulate. It’s almost like magic that a single song can transport you back to a specific moment in time.

Beyond individual well-being, music acts as a social glue that binds communities together. Shared playlists, family gatherings, weddings, and live concerts create spaces where people connect and celebrate together. These shared experiences foster joy and empathy. Feelings of love, loss, and many other emotions become easier to deal with and find expression in a way that language alone sometimes struggles to match. Even the simple act of exchanging song recommendations can deepen friendships.

Culturally, music preserves history and identity in ways that textbooks simply cannot. In Pakistan, centuries-old folk songs pass down stories of place, language, and folklore. They keep a variety of traditions alive from Sindh to Gilgit-Baltistan. These songs carry the voices of our ancestors—their struggles, celebrations, and dreams.

Qawwali, for instance, can open a spiritual door, particularly when all others fail. It is an expression of divine will and consequently lifts the soul. Meanwhile, contemporary genres such as hip-hop, pop, and electronic music give younger generations a platform to reflect on modern realities and global influences.

Streaming services like Spotify and YouTube have dramatically widened this reach. They allow regional artists to find audiences far beyond the regions from which they come. The rules of geography and man-made borders take a backseat. They also make it easier for listeners to explore both ancestral sounds and cutting-edge trends.

Whether ancient or modern, personal or collective, music remains a universal language that speaks to everyone, regardless of background and belief. National shows such as Pakistan Idol add another layer by uncovering hidden singers and giving them a stage to be heard. This serves as a reminder that talent exists everywhere, not just in the big cities. These platforms provide a chance for extraordinary voices to emerge from the most unexpected places, coming from small towns as well as bustling neighborhoods.

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### 313 Productions to Produce Pakistan Idol as It Enters Phase 2 with Record Participation

HL Global has named 313 Productions as the official producing partner of Pakistan Idol, with seasoned producer Badar Ikram at the helm. The show is set to premiere today, a date that means a great deal to music fans across the country.

Badar Ikram, a veteran of Pakistan’s television industry, launched Karachi-based 313 Productions in July after eleven years as SVP and Head of Film at a well-known local channel’s film division. In the past, he was also the Managing Director of Geo TV, which produced the program’s first and only season more than a decade ago. This gives Ikram unique insight into what made the original show work and what needs to be improved for the upcoming second season.

Pakistan Idol hopes to raise production standards and audience engagement while offering a platform to undiscovered singers. The goal is not only entertainment—it is about creating real opportunities for talented individuals who might otherwise never get their big break. Badar Ikram called the project both an honour and a responsibility, words that reflect the weight of nurturing new talent in a country that has an immense pool of ability and potential.

Meanwhile, MHL Global’s Director, Zoya Merchant, praised the energy at auditions and expressed confidence that the show will inspire viewers and highlight new talent. Auditions have been held nationwide, and state-of-the-art sets have been prepared. The competition has now moved into Phase 2 as organizers begin shortlisting contestants from a vast pool of applicants.

This is a task that’s both exciting and daunting given the sheer volume of talent. Auditions drew singers from Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Multan, Sukkur, Quetta, and Peshawar. There was also notable turnout from Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, and many smaller towns including Khairpur, Jacobabad, Gujrat, D. G. Khan, D. I. Khan, and Hyderabad. The geographic diversity is remarkable.

Those who auditioned wanted to prove that talent knows no boundaries. While many will not make it as contestants, it was heartening to see the turnout. Venues were busy, often with long queues and hundreds of hopefuls auditioning for a chance to progress to the next round. Many contestants traveled for hours just to perform, carrying dreams that had been years in the making.

Pakistan is more than one thing, and this show is ample proof.

The judging panel for Pakistan Idol includes musician and actor Fawad Khan; qawwali and playback singer Rahat Fateh Ali Khan; singer Zeb Bangash; and singer-songwriter, scriptwriter, storyteller, and director Bilal Maqsood.

“What makes Idol special is how it brings Pakistan together through music,” said Zoya Merchant. “From the smallest towns to the biggest cities, every voice matters here. This is where dreams meet opportunity and where the next star is born.”

Her words capture something essential about the show’s mission. It’s not just about finding one winner but about celebrating the musical diversity that exists across the country. As part of the global Idol franchise, the show offers the average individual an opportunity to transform their passion into a profession.

Ultimately, Pakistan Idol aims to create a cultural moment that could resonate for years to come. With 313 Productions at the helm and record participation from across the country, the program has the potential to reshape the local music ecosystem. The show could become a genuine launchpad for new careers rather than a one-season spectacle. This depends on whether production value, the judging panel, and broadcast partnerships match the ambition shown at auditions.

The stakes are high, but so is the potential.

For now, the biggest story is the sheer breadth of talent that turned up. It’s a reminder that opportunity, when paired with the right platform, can change lives and revive interest in the local music scene. In a country where musical talent often goes unrecognised, Pakistan Idol represents hope—hope that the next generation of artists will have better opportunities than those who came before them.

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### How to Make the Most of Spotify Free

Spotify, the world’s largest audio streaming platform, is always doing new things to keep listeners engaged. Spotify Free is another step in that direction. It puts a huge library in anyone’s pocket, letting listeners search, play, and share without a subscription.

In Pakistan, many users begin their streaming journey on the free tier, and honestly, it’s a good starting point. You can search for any track, play a suggested playlist, or jump straight into a song a friend has shared. The appeal lies in its simplicity and immediate access to millions of tracks.

Personalized lists such as Discover Weekly and Release Radar help you find new music. The more you listen and share, the more accurate the recommendations become. It feels like having a friend who understands your taste in music and keeps introducing you to new favourites.

Daylist adapts throughout the day to match your routine, providing upbeat tracks for your morning workout and mellow tunes for your evening wind-down. Meanwhile, real-time lyrics make it easy to sing along and share lines to Instagram or WhatsApp. There’s something satisfying about posting those perfect lyrics that capture exactly how you’re feeling at a particular moment.

For local listeners, Spotify Free is an entry point to both familiar favourites and new voices from across the country. It’s where you might discover that incredible singer from Multan or that indie band from Lahore that’s about to blow up. It lowers the barrier to discovery. There’s no financial commitment, only curiosity and a willingness to explore.

For emerging artists, this openness can lead to real exposure. For listeners, it can spark an interest in gigs, particularly local ones or talent shows such as Pakistan Idol. In that sense, the free tier is more of a beginning than an ending. It’s a first step in an ongoing conversation between artists and audiences that helps keep the music alive—the digital equivalent of discovering new music through word of mouth, just on a much larger scale.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346799-soundcheck-what-struck-a-chord

Troubled footy star Jamarra Ugle-Hagan to part ways with Western Bulldogs

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Jamarra Ugle-Hagan is set to try and make an AFL comeback, but it won’t be with the Western Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs were expected to make a call on Ugle-Hagan’s future early this week as the out-of-favour forward prepared for his exit interview. However, it now appears the Bulldogs star has made the decision for them.

The former No. 1 draft pick had previously been linked to the Sydney Swans, but their interest has reportedly cooled. The Dogs could seek a negotiated settlement on the remainder of his deal, which runs until the end of 2026, if no club picks Ugle-Hagan up before the end of the trade period.

This decision comes at the end of a difficult season in which Ugle-Hagan did not play a single game at any level, leaving both his career and the club in limbo. Despite remaining under contract until the end of 2026 on a deal worth upwards of $800,000 a year, it is widely believed he will not be at Whitten Oval next season.

The Bulldogs are currently weighing up whether to explore a trade, pursue a negotiated settlement, or find another way to cut their losses.

The 21-year-old’s turbulent year reached a low point in August when he was caught up in a nightclub shooting in Prahran. There is no suggestion that he was involved in the incident, but he was present at the Love Machine nightclub when it happened.

Ugle-Hagan later revealed he was standing just a metre from where a bullet struck, describing himself as “lucky to be alive.” This frightening episode highlighted off-field issues that have increasingly dominated discussions about his career, raising further concern about his wellbeing and lifestyle choices.

This incident followed months of absence from football. Ugle-Hagan began the year on a flexible training program following personal tragedy and officially took a leave of absence in April to focus on his mental health.

He later admitted to experiencing suicidal thoughts and a deep loss of connection with the game. In June, he delivered an emotional video message to teammates apologising for his struggles and vowing to try again.

Although he returned briefly to training, he never pushed for selection and by season’s end had failed to feature in either the AFL or VFL sides.

For the Bulldogs, managing this situation has meant balancing support for a young man in crisis with the practical realities of a list spot and a heavy salary commitment. Coach Luke Beveridge has acknowledged the delicacy of the situation, recently stating that Ugle-Hagan needs a “fresh start.”

While Beveridge would not confirm whether that fresh start might still exist at the Bulldogs, his comments underline the growing belief that the club and player will part ways.

Trade speculation is already underway, with Sydney floated as a potential suitor. Any rival club would need to conduct extensive due diligence before considering a deal, cautious about taking on both the contract and the associated risks.

Ugle-Hagan’s management, however, insists he is capable of redemption. Prominent agent Paul Connors said last week he still believes in his client’s talent and commitment, pointing to Jesse Hogan’s successful revival at Greater Western Sydney as proof that players can rebuild careers after serious setbacks.

“He looks fit, he’s got an appetite for training, he trains hard,” Connors said. “I think he can still play, so it’s just if someone is going to give him an opportunity. You might have to go ten steps back to go twenty forward, but let’s see.”
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/afl/article-15124703/Troubled-footy-star-Jamarra-Ugle-Hagan-ways-Western-Bulldogs.html?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490

In a world of toxic masculinity, this is how I’m raising my sons to be good men

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Mental-health advocate Blake Johnston is known for holding the world record for the longest continuous surf, which he achieved in 2023 to raise awareness and money for charity. Here, the 43-year-old talks about how he and his wife Lauren are raising their two boys, and how his father’s battle with mental illness has informed his life.

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My maternal grandmother, Bessie, loved her cigarettes. She was sweet and very good to my grandfather, Ian. She adored him, and that was special to see. My mum, Sandy, was pretty close to her.

My dad, Wayne, was a builder who renovated houses, so we moved around a lot. When I was a baby, we lived with my grandparents for a while in Cronulla, Sydney, where I grew up. Nan was always cooking and provided a comforting home for us.

I’m a lot like Mum in that I’m sensitive and empathetic. She’s very loving and selfless. We didn’t have a lot when I was growing up, but Mum always made my four brothers and me feel so loved and special.

I was 31 when Dad committed suicide. He had a medical condition that severely affected his mental health. Mum’s gone through every emotion since — anger, loneliness, and isolation. Family is everything to her.

After Dad’s death, my older brother, Ben, and I drifted apart. Mum’s grief will never disappear, but she knows all five of her sons love her.

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I had a few relationships in school, but I wasn’t that interested for the first two decades of my life; I was dedicated to surfing. I first went on a surfboard with Dad when I was four.

When I was around 13, Layne Beachley, who later became a seven-time world champion, and I crossed paths at a Quiksilver training camp. The camp was physically demanding, but Layne was killing it. She was one of only two girls present but had this determination and focus that obviously paid off.

My first celebrity crush was Cameron Diaz. I remember seeing her in the 1998 movie *There’s Something About Mary*. Her smile lit up a room.

I went to the Year 10 formal with Chantelle, a girl I had a crush on. She never liked me back; rather, it was convenient for her.

My first serious relationship was at 17, when I met Laura at the beach. She was finishing high school and was so easy-going. I spoiled her with gifts and took her to Hawaii. She wanted to go to London after graduating, and our breakup was tough.

I was 19 when I met Ash. Her family was involved in the local surf scene. Ash had just finished Year 12, and we spent a year together. She wanted to focus on her career and again my heart was broken.

From that point on, I spent more time with my mates. I wasn’t looking for a relationship when Lauren, who’s now my wife, showed up.

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Lauren was finishing a marketing degree and preparing for a corporate career. She was petite, blonde, and full of positive energy — my dream girl. We got along so well and respected each other. I fell in love pretty quickly.

I constantly do things that show Lauren I love her. I buy flowers and make sure she knows how appreciated and awesome she is.

Lauren is an outstanding mum to our boys, Bobby, 13, and Duke, 10.

With social media and the rise of toxic masculinity, it’s a difficult time for boys and young men regarding how to treat women. It’s not a sit-down lesson; it’s how I consistently treat Lauren.

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In 2023, I set the world record for the longest continuous surf and raised $500,000 for mental health charities. Being in the water for 40 hours, I felt both elated and frustrated. But there were dark times, too, as I reflected on my whole life — what happened with my dad, and not making it as a pro surfer.

Lauren was with me the whole way. She continued to run our surf school and hardly slept. It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but upon exiting the water, my beautiful wife was the first person I saw. To see her there was so powerful.

Without Lauren, I wouldn’t be the person I am today.

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*Swellbeing* (Hachette Australia) by Blake Johnston is out September 30.
https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/lifestyle/life-and-relationships/in-a-world-of-toxic-masculinity-this-is-how-i-m-raising-my-sons-to-be-good-men-20250901-p5mre4.html?ref=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_source=rss_feed

Dear Abby: My husband blames me for having my period

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Dear Abby: Husband’s Angry Panic Over Intimacy Near My Menstrual Cycle

Dear Abby,
I am frustrated with my husband. We have been together 18 years. When it gets close to my menstrual cycle, he gets into an angry panic for us to be intimate because he travels for work and is home only four nights a week. If we are not able to, he pouts, then becomes angry and distant, and peppers me for updates to determine how soon we can resume intimacy. Regardless of how I feel at my time of the month, my feelings are ignored.

He claims I don’t make time for him even though he’s out most evenings volunteering and doesn’t return until after 11 p.m. My day starts at 6:30 a.m., and I can’t stay up that late and function the next day.

Is it right for him to be angry with me over something my body does naturally? Is it my duty to make sure he’s satisfied before my cycle comes?

Blamed in Canada

Dear Blamed,
You appear to be married to an ignorant bully. It is not right for your husband to be angry over something your body does naturally. Is it your duty to make sure he is satisfied, whether you are tired or concerned about an early wake-up call, even if he makes a habit of being out of the house until nearly midnight? Mmmm, I don’t think so.

If this is your husband’s method of foreplay, he could use some lessons. This is why I strongly suggest the two of you hash this out and reach a compromise with the help of a licensed marriage and family therapist.

P.S. Sex in marriage is supposed to be consensual, a loving act of communication, not submission to domination.

Dear Abby: Lost My Husband to Cancer—Will I Ever Find Another?

Dear Abby,
I lost my husband to cancer five months ago. When I listen to sad music or watch a sad movie, I think of him and cry. He was a good man who had a lot of friends who cared about him. He also loved life.

I spent all my time taking care of him until the day he died. I did everything for him while he was home and stayed by his side. When he died, I held his hand and kissed him goodbye.

Will I ever find another husband to spend my life with? What should I do now?

Lost for Now in Texas

Dear Lost,
Please accept my sympathy for the loss of your beloved husband. The void he has left is palpable.

Your chances of finding another mate depend upon whether you are prepared to take as good care of yourself as you did the man you lost. By that, I mean keeping yourself busy enough that you don’t have time to be depressed.

Maintain your physical health by getting out of the house and exercising (walking) at least half an hour each day. Rebuild your social life so you aren’t sitting alone at home listening to sad music and brooding. Volunteer in your community.

All of these things will expose you to other people and help you be your best self. While I can’t guarantee it will get you a mate, it will improve the odds.

https://nypost.com/2025/09/18/lifestyle/dear-abby-my-husband-blames-me-for-having-my-period/