How our beds are dirtier than chimpanzee nests

A new study has revealed that a third of the bacteria in our beds is from our own bodies and may be causing health problems – while chimps’ nests are almost spotless

Disruption of daily rhythms linked to mental health problems

People with disrupted 24-hour cycles of rest and activity more likely to have mood disorders, research suggests

‘Only use your bed for sex and sleep’ and other tips for dealing with chronic insomnia

News at Ten anchor Tom Bradby has been off work for five weeks with insomnia – and he’s not alone: some 30-50% of us suffer from sleep disorders. Here are some tricks to nodding off

Sleep Demons by Bill Hayes review – an insomniac’s memoir

Reissued with a new preface, this intimate and beautifully written book brings scientific research alive in a heartfelt and deeply personal narrative

‘Guaranteed to be devoid of excitement’: the book that wants to bore you to sleep

With its short chapters on railway gauges, Belgian politics and roundabouts, This Book Will Send You To Sleep promises to knock you out after a few pages. But tedium can prove addictive …

Can’t sleep? Tell yourself it’s not a big deal

There’s growing evidence that thinking of yourself as an insomniac is a major part of the problem

Dream ticket: how sleep became a billion-dollar business

Tiredness is the new norm – no wonder companies are selling sleep aids from spooning robots to cuddle blankets. How did a restful night become a luxury item?

Late risers more likely to die early? Wake me up from this nightmare

My dedication to watching woeful late-night TV is apparently a health hazard. Should society do more to cater to night-owls, asks freelance writer Andy Dawson

Seven ways … to improve your sleep

One in five adults in the UK don’t get the rest they need. If you are among them, here are tips to ensure you get all of your 40 winks

How to boost your business? Let workers sleep

My research shows that everything from profits to creativity is improved when employees are well rested, says Matthew Walker, author of Why We Sleep