Did you know that we’re officially living through the most uncertain moment in human history, according to the World Uncertainty Index (which maps global economic, political and social volatility)? It’s no surprise, then, that for many of us our cortisol levels are sky-high.

“The good news is that there are scientifically backed things we can do to minimise the impact of cortisol spikes and soothe our shredded nerves,” writes Meena Alexander in this week’s cover story, which is dedicated to finding ways to lower our levels. “We asked experts in the fields of neuroscience, psychology, nutrition and integrative wellness to weigh in with 25 ways to manage stress in the modern world. Breathe into your belly, unclench your jaw and read yourself calmer.”

Hannah Keegan,
Features Director, Stylist 

When her boyfriend lost his job, Alice*, 27, assumed supporting him would be temporary. Instead, she spent almost a year funding their lives while he withdrew from the world. Here, she explains how the relationship affected her finances, her body and her sense of self.