Research and practical stories
Many people notice that when they speak English, they seem to be different. Some become bolder, some more strict, some colder in their emotions. It’s not just intuition: linguists and psychologists have already proven that language and culture “turn on” certain patterns of behavior and emotions.
What exactly happens in your head
When you switch to another language, not only words are activated – cultural patterns, expectations, and manners are also activated. This mechanism is called cultural frame switching. For bilinguals, language acts as a trigger: the English-speaking frame is individualistic, more direct; the native frame is perhaps more reserved or collectivistic. This changes the way a person thinks, evaluates a situation, and expresses themselves.
Emotions in the L2: from distance to freedom
The second aspect is emotional distance. Many studies show that emotional reactions and the vocabulary of feelings differ between L1 and L2: English sometimes allows you to describe and even discuss difficult things more easily or with less involvement. For some, this is a defense – they can talk about painful things without the same internal “burning” feeling. For others, it is the key to more open self-expression.
Practical cases – what it looks like in real life
Does the “character” change forever?
Not really. Studies show that it is more of a change in personality expression than a complete transformation of the self. In other words, you don’t become a different person forever – you just get additional ways of behaving and thinking depending on the language context. And the higher your language competence and habit of using the language in different contexts, the smoother the switch.
Tips on how to use this effect to your advantage
● Practice your “role” consciously. If you want to be more confident at a job interview, practice answering questions in English, and hone your short formulations and strong phrases.
Try therapeutic L2 writing. If it’s hard to talk about emotions, write about them in English – it can give you distance and clarity.
Manage your emotions. If you notice that English makes you sound cold or “fake,” try consciously adding more congratulatory phrases and empathetic expressions to maintain sincerity.
● Develop cultural flexibility. The more you understand the cultural clichés and expectations of the language environment, the better you will be able to “turn on” the necessary traits without losing your core.
Unexpected benefits for language learning
In addition to communicative benefits, switching languages develops psychological flexibility: You learn to look at situations from different angles, adapt more easily to new cultural rules, and take risks because the “other language” gives you permission to behave differently. For an entrepreneur or a teacher, this is a real plus in negotiation or creative tasks.
A brief summary
English is not just a set of structures and words. It is also a tool of self-identification: it encourages you to try other roles, emotional states, and styles of behavior. For many people, it is a chance to find courage, express an opinion without excessive emotional stress, or vice versa – to learn to be direct and decisive. Research confirms that language switching is real and has measurable effects, but it doesn’t erase your “old self” – rather, it adds new tools to your toolbox.
If you want to not only learn English but also use it as a means of transforming your personality, ENGLISH.KH.UA is the place to do it. Here you will be offered not only grammar and vocabulary, but also practice in real-life situations: business negotiations, self-reflection, and communication. By immersing yourself in the language with us, you will get the key to new roles in life – a more confident leader, a more sincere person, a bolder dreamer. Allow yourself to grow, change and express yourself through English – and together we will discover new facets of your self.
References (for those who want to dig deeper)
● Chen, S. X., Benet-Martínez, V., & Bond, M. H. – Two languages, two personalities? Examining language effects on the expression of personality in a bilingual context. PubMed
● Benet-Martínez, V., Leu, J., Lee, F., & Morris, M. – Negotiating Biculturalism: Cultural Frame Switching in Biculturals. SAGE Journals.
● Aneta Pavlenko – Emotions and Multilingualism / Emotion and emotion-laden words in the bilingual lexicon.anetapavlenko.com+1
● Dewaele, J.-M. – research on the perception of self when switching languages (multilinguals feel different…).
(how language learning changes the brain and reduces anxiety)
When we learn English, we don’t just learn new words or grammar rules – we trigger a real brain rewiring that has a powerful therapeutic effect. In this article, we will analyze how language learning changes neural networks, helps you feel in control of your life, and reduces anxiety, and look at practical cases to show how this works in real life.
1. Why learning English can be anti-stressful
1.1 Feeling in control of your life
Many people who start learning a language feel a sense of inner power over the situation: they are learning, progressing, and getting small “victories”. When you can say a new word, make a sentence, or make sense of a simple conversation, it’s the real procrastination equivalent of small achievements every day. And it gives you a sense of control.
This is especially important when other parts of life seem chaotic or uncertain. Language acquisition is one of those aspects where you know you’re moving forward step by step.
1.2 Focus as a way to distract from anxiety
When you study, focus on phonetics, on rules, or on new words, some of the attention that might have been occupied by anxious thoughts is now diverted to productive activities. This “mental focus” works like a mini-meditation: you disconnect from cyclical negative thoughts and work on something constructive instead.
1.3 The social aspect
Learning a language is often connected with communication – online classes, language partners, teachers. This means new social interactions that can be a source of support. Try to imagine the situation: you have an agreement with a conversation partner, you discuss mistakes together, laugh at new words – all this creates a supportive environment in which it is easier to overcome nervousness.
2. What happens to the brain when we learn English
2.1 The brain is a plastic organ
Our brain is an incredibly flexible system. When we learn a new language, it doesn’t just store words in memory: it creates new pathways – neural connections between different areas. This process is called neuroplasticity.
For example, the parts of the brain responsible for memory, matching with audio-sensory signals, tactile and motor coordination (for example, when we write or speak) are all activated and “learn” to work together.
Over time, these connections become stronger, faster, and more efficient. This means that the brain adapts – and this adaptation has not only cognitive but also emotional benefits.
2.2 Regulating emotions
When we integrate a new language, brain areas related to attention, impulse control, planning, and emotional regulation are activated. This means that along with language knowledge, we train the “control muscles”: we teach the brain to focus, restrain impulses (for example, the desire to quit when something doesn’t work out), and analyze our mistakes constructively. As a result, your anxiety level decreases – you worry less about being “unprepared” and feel more stable and supported.
2.3 Long-term cognitive benefits
Studies show that people who regularly learn a second language have improved cognitive flexibility (the ability to switch between tasks), better memory, and abstract thinking. This means that language practice helps not only now, but also supports brain health in the long run. For an anxious person, this is like investing in a “mental reserve” of strength that can help them cope with life’s challenges.
3. How to get started so that studying really works as an anti-stress tool
3.1 Setting small goals
You don’t need to set yourself a super-task right away, such as “I’ll learn 10,000 words in a year.” It is better to start with something easier and more achievable:
● learn 5 new words a day;
● make an audio recording of yourself reading the text and compare it in a week;
Have a 10-minute conversation with a practice partner.
When you achieve such goals, your brain gives you a small “dose of dopamine” – and this increases the feeling of success and control.
3.2 Routine/habit
Create a simple program: for example, 10 minutes of vocabulary review in the morning, 15 minutes of reading or listening to an English podcast in the evening. Regularity is the key. The more often you practice, the more stable the neural connections become, and the better the brain “memorizes the route”.
3.3 Emotional support
Find a language partner or teacher who understands that learning is not just an academic task, but also part of your psycho-emotional health. Ask for support if you feel anxious or frustrated: talk about what exactly is bothering you (e.g., fear of making a mistake) and let your partner know how they can help you (support, explanation, praise).
3.4 Reflection
Keep a diary or simply write down your thoughts on the following topics: “What did I learn today?”, “What was difficult?”, “What inspires me?”. Reflection helps the brain process experience, prioritize, and strengthen neural connections. In addition, it gives you a sense of progress – even if it seems like it’s “still far away.”
4. Practical cases: living stories of learning English as an anti-stress tool
4.1 Olena’s story: a manager with anxiety
Olena is a manager in an IT company and often felt very anxious before speaking at meetings or presentations. She decided to enroll in an English for the corporate environment course. At first, her biggest fear was that she might make a mistake while speaking to clients in English.
Olena started with small steps: 5-minute interactive exercises every morning, a couple of minutes of audio before going to bed. In the beginning, she recorded herself speaking the lines from the textbook, then reviewed the recordings again. In 2-3 months, she noticed that she became more confident: she had her own “comfortable pace” of speaking, and the fear that others would not understand disappeared. In addition, this regular routine gave her a steady progression of achievements: new words every week, and improved pronunciation every month.
Emotionally, it became a real therapy for her: instead of worrying about the upcoming presentation at night, she focused on preparing her English, which gave her more control. At the end of six months, her ability to speak in public had increased and her anxiety had significantly decreased-not because of the pill, but because of her favorite “mental trainer.”
4.2 Igor’s story: a student looking for an escape from stress
Igor is a student who works and studies at the same time. He was chased by deadlines every day, and he began to get absorbed in anxious scenarios: “will I make it in time”, “what if I fail”, “how will I survive this marathon”. To distract himself and change the routine tension, he decided to start learning English through a mobile app.
At first, he just played the exercises – they became his short “reset breaks” during the day. When working between lectures, he would set aside 10 minutes for exercises, scrolling through flashcards with words and listening to short audios. Gradually, he added conversational practice to his routine by chatting with a native speaker (he found partners online).
After three months, Igor noticed that when stress comes, he panics less: instead of worrying about a deadline, he imagines himself practicing English or working with flashcards, and this automatically reduces tension. His productivity at work and school has improved because some of the energy he used to spend on negative scenarios is now spent on learning. And interestingly, he began to understand his resources in a new way: stress was no longer an enemy, but a signal to “train”.
4.3 Maria’s story: calming through language
Maria is a young mother who often experienced anxiety about the future: “will I have enough time”, “will I be able to combine family and work”, “will I make mistakes in my new business”. She had never thought about learning a language before, but one day she realized that it could be more than just a skill, it could be therapy.
She signed up for an online course with live lessons with a teacher. Every day, when the child calmed down, Maria would open the platform and take a short lesson – reading dialogues, repeating phrases, asking questions to the teacher. Gradually, this became her “quiet time”: even when other things were creating chaos, English was the island of calm where she had control.
After six months, Maria noticed that her anxious thoughts were less frequent, and if they did, she was able to find a way to switch gears more quickly. She felt her own value again: “I’m learning a language, I’m developing, I’m not just a mom – I’m a person with my own goals.” And this self-awareness helped her feel more stable in her inner life.
5. Mechanisms that explain the anxiolytic effect of language learning
5.1 The dopamine system and “small achievements”
Every time we learn a new word or use a correct construction, the brain receives a small “reward” in the form of dopamine. It’s not a big euphoria, as with big life events, but it’s enough to keep you motivated and strengthen neural pathways. This “small reward” system is ideal for reducing chronic anxiety, which is often fueled by a shifted balance between fear and anticipation.
5.2 Activation of the prefrontal cortex
When we learn a language, we use the prefrontal cortex, a part of the brain that is responsible for thinking, planning, and controlling emotions. Regular English exercises train this area, making it more “mature”: this means a better ability to react thoughtfully rather than impulsively, which means less panic when stressors arise.
5.3 Reducing rumination
Rumination is when thoughts dwell on, for example, negativity or fears. Learning a language serves as a kind of “cognitive barrier”: when attention is focused on grammar, vocabulary, or listening, rumination simply has less “space” to unfold. Thus, the brain gets a chance to “rest” from the cycle of negative thoughts.
5.4 Social neurotransmitters
When you communicate with a conversation partner, teacher, or friends in English, social reinforcement systems are activated: oxytocin, serotonin, and other neurotransmitters associated with feelings of safety, support, and belonging. This is not just useful for learning – it is therapeutic.
6. How to make learning anxiolytic – tips
7. Potential challenges and how to deal with them
● Feeling “stuck”
Sometimes progress slows down, and this can cause frustration. At such moments, it is helpful to change your approach: try other formats (games, flashcards, songs), or contact your teacher to develop a new plan.
● Inner critic
Many people are afraid of making mistakes or sounding “imperfect”. It is worth remembering that mistakes are not a failure, but a learning mechanism. The goal is not to “be perfect” but to “grow.”
Difficulties with motivation
If practice seems boring, try to regulate it more clearly: some days focus on grammar, others on listening, and still others on talking to people. This rotation will help keep you interested.
● Limit the time
Many people have very busy schedules. That’s why micro-lessons, mini-exercises, or audio while traveling can be a lifesaver.
8. Conclusion: why English is not just a skill, but a tool for self-development and calming down
Learning English triggers neuroplasticity: the brain creates new connections, becomes more flexible and stronger.
Regular language practice trains the prefrontal cortex, a key area for controlling emotions and impulses.
Achievement of even small goals (a new word, successful pronunciation, communication) gives systemic “rewards” that reduce stress.
The social component of learning – conversations, support from a partner or teacher – brings a sense of belonging and security.
Reflection and daily progress give a sense of control over oneself and one’s development.
● Micro-lessons and flexible formats allow you to fit learning even into a busy schedule and turn it into a resource rather than an additional source of anxiety.
Conclusion.
English can be a powerful anti-stress tool. It doesn’t just open up new career or travel opportunities – it changes your brain, helps you develop internal control, reduce anxiety, and make you feel more confident. Learning a language is not just about knowledge, it’s about transforming yourself: step by step, word by word, you build not only your linguistic competence, but also your psycho-emotional stability.
Learning English with us is not just about grammar or correct pronunciation. It is your little daily ritual of self-care. When you take an online lesson with us, you have a safe space where you can slow down, focus on something new and give your brain a break from disturbing thoughts. Step by step, you will feel more control, more confidence, more inner support. And we at www.english.kh.ua will be there for you – calmly, humanely, with support and faith in your progress – until English becomes your personal anti-stress and source of strength.
The National Association of Lobbyists of Ukraine (NALU) supports the European Parliament’s initiatives to establish a minimum age for access to social networks, video platforms, and digital AI services, as well as to ban the most harmful and addictive digital practices targeting minors.
“NALU fully supports this initiative of the European Parliament and considers it an important step towards creating a safe, ethical, and responsible digital environment,” said a statement from the NALU board, as reported by the Interfax-Ukraine agency.
NALU notes that the European recommendations provide, in particular, for setting the minimum age for access to social networks at 16, allowing children aged 13-16 to access social networks only with parental consent, banning the most harmful elements of digital design, including autoplay, infinite scroll, dark patterns, intrusive recommendation algorithms, a ban on targeted advertising and influencer marketing aimed at minors, as well as increased responsibility of digital platforms for the protection of children, including the personal responsibility of company executives and the implementation of technologies in them.
“In the context of Ukraine’s European integration and the adaptation of national regulations to EU standards, NALU officially supports the European Parliament’s proposals to reform digital safety rules for children. Ukrainian lobbyists in Brussels are already beginning consultations with European institutions to agree on approaches that can be implemented in Ukraine,” the statement said.
It is noted that the association will recommend that the Verkhovna Rada and relevant committees consider the possibility of adapting the proposed European standards to national legislation.
“NALU is ready to provide expert, analytical, and regulatory and methodological support to Ukrainian authorities in developing relevant legislative changes. The association believes that the protection of minors online is a matter of national security, digital health of society, and the state’s responsibility to the younger generation,” the document notes.
The association emphasized that NALU will continue to work on the adoption of transparent and European standards in the field of digital policy and advocacy, contributing to the formation of modern legislation that will protect children and support the development of an ethical digital space in Ukraine.
On November 26, 2025, the European Parliament adopted a report calling for the introduction of a unified minimum age of 16 in the European Union for access to social networks, video platforms, and digital AI services, as well as a ban on the most harmful and addictive digital practices targeting minors.
PJSC United Mining and Chemical Company (UMCC Titanium) planted 108,000 seedlings and completed the annual cycle of reclamation of the depleted site of its subsidiary, Irshansk Mining and Processing Plant (IMPP, Zhytomyr region).
According to information from the company on Wednesday, the final step in this process was the biological stage with the mechanical planting of trees on areas of 29 hectares and 0.47 hectares near the village of Huta-Dobryn (Irshansk Village Council, Zhytomyr Region), where about 108,000 mixed tree seedlings were planted.
It is noted that before planting the forest, the company’s specialists carried out a complex of preparatory work: they treated the soil, applied mineral fertilizers, and prepared the area for planting tree species.
“Reclamation of disturbed land is an important element of responsible mining. For Polissya, where significant reserves of titanium ore are concentrated, this is of particular ecological importance,” the press release states.
It is specified that the forestry approach to restoration makes it possible to work effectively in areas with altered terrain, increase the forest fund, and create the conditions for the return of natural ecosystems. Over time, the new plantings will form a stable vegetation cover and contribute to the revival of local flora and fauna.
“UMCC Titanium, in cooperation with strategic investor NEQSOL Holding, will continue to adhere to the principles of sustainable development, combining efficient production with a responsible attitude towards the environment,” the company’s statement concludes.
As reported, NEQSOL Holding’s subsidiary Cemin Ukraine LLC acquired OGHK at auction on October 9, 2024, for UAH 3 billion 938 million 351.58.
NEQSOL Holding is an international group of companies with over 12,000 employees operating in 11 countries. In Ukraine, it owns the second largest mobile operator in terms of subscribers, VF Ukraine (TM Vodafone Ukraine). The founder and owner of NEQSOL Holding is Azerbaijani citizen Nasib Hasanov.
OGHK began its actual operations in August 2014, when the Ukrainian government decided to transfer the property complexes of the Vilnohirsk Mining and Metallurgical Combine (VGMK, Dnipropetrovsk region) and the Irshansk Mining and Processing Plant (IGZK, Zhytomyr region). Previously, these plants were leased to Dmitry Firtash’s structures.
Ukraine won the medal count at the 2025 Summer Deaflympics, which ended in Tokyo, according to a report on Wednesday by Suspilne. Sport.
After 12 days of competition, the Ukrainian team won a record 100 medals, 32 of them gold, 39 silver, and 29 bronze. Ukrainians competed for awards in 13 sports.
According to the report, this result is Ukraine’s second-best achievement in the history of its participation in the Deaflympics, after 138 medals in 2021.
The United States came in second with 52 medals, including 32 gold, 12 silver, and 8 bronze.
In third place is the host country, Japan, with 36 medals, including 17 gold, 7 silver, and 12 bronze.
Apple Inc. will surpass South Korea’s Samsung Electronics in global smartphone shipments in 2025 for the first time in 14 years, according to experts at Counterpoint Research.
According to the company’s forecast, iPhone shipments to the global market will reach 243 million units this year, while Samsung smartphone shipments will total around 235 million units.
Apple’s share of the global smartphone market at the end of the year is expected to be 19.4%, while Samsung’s will be 18.7%.
The optimistic forecasts for Apple are linked to the success of the iPhone 17 line, which the company unveiled in September. Counterpoint calls sales of this line of devices during the current holiday season “outstanding.”
Sales of iPhone 17 smartphones in the first four weeks after their launch were 12% higher than the previous iPhone 16 line, Counterpoint notes. In China, a key market for Apple, sales of these devices during the same period exceeded the previous line’s results by 18%.
Meanwhile, Samsung is facing difficulties due to growing competition from Chinese manufacturers in the budget and mid-range price segments, which is limiting the South Korean company’s sales.
Counterpoint analysts expect Apple to maintain its sales leadership in the global smartphone market until the end of 2029.
