We often see pets as just a part of our daily lives - the ones who greet us at the door, curl up beside us, or demand breakfast at 6 a.m. sharp. But behind those everyday moments lies a bond that’s shaped by millions of years of co-evolution and a deep emotional connection that can transform us. In this episode, we look at the psychology of our relationships with our pets - how they are so transformative, soothe our stress, shift our moods, and even change the way we relate to other people. Pets aren’t just companions; they can become anchors in times of change, mirrors for our emotions, and constant reminders of simple joy.

We’ll explore:
• The science of why we bond so strongly with animals
• How our pets mirror our mental health
• Survival of the cutest
• The pain of losing a childhood pet, and disenfranchised grief
• FOUR key questions to ask yourself if you’re thinking of committing to a pet

Whether you’re a proud pet parent or just curious about why humans are so drawn to animals, this episode is for you.

ORDER MY BOOK: https://www.psychologyofyour20s.com/general-clean

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Happiness often feels like a simple goal - something we’re told to chase or “find” if we’re lucky. But it’s not just about good moods or quick wins. True happiness is more subtle, shaped by how we show up in life, the people we surround ourselves with, and the meaning we create along the way. In this episode, we dive into what happiness really means in your twenties and beyond - why it can be so hard to hold onto, and how it’s tied to more than just feeling good.

We’ll explore:

• Why happiness isn’t a permanent state, but a shifting experience
• How everyday habits and relationships quietly influence our sense of happiness
• The PERMA model of happiness
• Why chasing pleasure doesn’t always lead to fulfilment
• Busting the 3 biggest myths about happiness
• Simple, real ways to build happiness for now, and for the future

If you’re tired of chasing constant happiness and want to explore a more genuine, meaningful way to experience joy – this one is for you.

ORDER MY BOOK: https://www.psychologyofyour20s.com/general-clean

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode we break down the growing conversation around the “male loneliness epidemic”: what’s true, what’s misleading, and what the research actually says. This is a complex and controversial topic, but one that deserves a clear, evidence-based perspective.

• Why has loneliness been declared a global health crisis?

• How the global loneliness epidemic differs from the male loneliness epidemic

• Are men actually the lonelier gender?

• The role of patriarchy, the manosphere, scapegoating, and in-group/out-group psychology

• The consequences for both men and women

• Healthy, proactive approaches to tackling loneliness in society

Plus, so much more! Drop your thoughts below.

For mental health support: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

ORDER MY BOOK: https://www.psychologyofyour20s.com/general-clean

Follow Jemma on Instagram: @jemmasbeg

Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thatpsychologypodcast

For business: psychologyofyour20s@gmail.com

The Psychology of your 20s is not a substitute for professional mental health help. If you are struggling, distressed or require personalised advice, please reach out to your doctor or a licensed psychologist.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.