Professor Barbara Sahakian and Dr Christelle Langley featured on University of Cambridge website
Professor Barbara Sahakian, Fellow of Clare Hall, and Dr Christelle Langley, Clare Hall Affiliated Postdoctoral Researcher, were recently interviewed for an article on the University’s main website, titled “Boost your life in 2025”.
Professor Sahakian and Dr Langley provided three key recommendations for boosting brain health and overall happiness, based on findings from their own research.
Getting a good night’s sleep ensures that our brains remove toxins and consolidate memories. Professor Sahakian and Dr Langley’s studies have shown that consistent sleep for 7-8 hours for middle to older adults is important for brain health, cognition and wellbeing, along with physical health.
Nurturing your social life is key to wellbeing, as humans are naturally social creatures. Their research has shown that in adolescents, having five friends is associated with better brain health, cognition, and wellbeing. Similarly in older adults, their research has shown that social isolation is associated with a 26% increased risk of dementia.
Keeping your mind active through learning and mental activities ensures that your brain is more resilient not only in times of stress, but also in instances of traumatic brain injury and neuropsychiatric conditions. Their studies have found that cognitive games are beneficial for cognition, such as those available through PEAK ‘brain training’ apps.

Professor Sahakian and Dr Langley’s highly anticipated new book, Brain Boost: Healthy Habits for a Happier Life, (Cambridge University Press) is available from 23 January 2025, and it will be featured in the window display of the Cambridge University Press Bookshop!