Charlie Biggs-Thomas

A global survey from AXA and Ipsos ranks the UK as having the worst mental health in Europe, with over one-third of people affected and high levels of severe depression, anxiety and stress. Most respondents had not seen a mental health professional in the past year, and many cited fear of judgement. Nearly half of UK respondents use AI tools for support, though trust and satisfaction are mixed, with some reporting harmful outcomes from AI advice. Broader concerns include uncertainty about the future and anxiety surrounding the growing use of AI in the workplace. AXA leaders emphasise the importance of professional support access and organisational responsibility to protect employee wellbeing amid technological change.

A survey of 2,000 music fans found that 70% regularly listen to the same songs and a quarter have no interest in expanding their playlists, with familiarity, comfort and nostalgia among the key reasons. National Rail commissioned DJ Adriano Desire and music psychologist Dr Ruth Herbert to create a three-minute audio track designed to reset listening habits ahead of festival season. Many festival attendees use train journeys to explore new music, and DJ Pete Tong emphasised the opportunity these journeys provide to disengage from routine and discover fresh sounds.

A study of 2,000 people over 50 finds many are delaying dream trips due to work, financial pressures and health concerns, with one in four feeling stuck in travel limbo. Newmarket Holidays promotes ‘pretirement sabbaticals’ to help older travellers overcome barriers and shares tips from Race Across the World winners Mark Blythen and Margo Oakley, encouraging travel without waiting for the perfect time, embracing ease, remaining open to unexpected moments, travelling with others and recognising personal capability.

A survey of 2,000 UK adults found London and Liverpool to be the cities most engaged with the World Cup, with viewing intentions well above the national average. Bristol ranked lowest in enthusiasm. Many respondents plan to watch matches at home, with some reorganising schedules, booking leave or considering calling in sick to follow games. Emotional investment is high, with some admitting they would cry if their nation were knocked out and others valuing a national victory over club success. Freebets.com, which commissioned the research, highlighted the strong cultural pull of the tournament and the challenges posed by match scheduling.