HEALTH NOTES: Weary young who need a quick nap

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A third of young adults snatch time for a nap most days, while only one in ten over-60s has a regular snooze.

But across all ages, a third of the 1,000 respondents in a survey admitted they had trouble sleeping at least three times a week and felt permanently tired.

Commenting on the survey’s findings, the sleep expert Denise Lordache said: ‘It is essential that we get our shut-eye for rejuvenation, muscle growth, tissue repair and overall health.’

She added: ‘Six hours of sleep is at the very bottom end of the NHS recommendation of six to nine hours.’

The survey, which was conducted by cannabidiol supplement company Dragonfly Biosciences, found that almost half of the adults interviewed said the Covid-19 pandemic had worsened their sleep.

Soothing sight of cats and dogs 

Looking at pictures of a pet could help beat anxiety and depression.

Psychologists at the University of Reading created an online gallery – projectsoothe.com – using pictures taken by members of the public with the aim of inducing relaxation.

People visiting the site are encouraged to spend a few minutes looking through them every day, and give feedback on what works. 

The most popular images featured a pet cat or dog, as well as a tranquil lake and home-cooked meal.