Do Weighted Blankets Work?
To answer this question let's find out what a weighted blanket is, their benefits, what the studies say and what parents say!
What is a weighted blanket?
Weighted blankets are heavier blankets that can be used to help with self-calming and sensory regulation. The added weight of the blanket is intended to provide a calming effect giving the feeling of being held, hugged or cuddled. It does this by providing something called deep pressure touch. -NHS
Weighted blankets are heavy blankets used to aid sleep and reduce anxiety. They are most commonly used as therapeutic tools to help individuals with autism spectrum disorders, dementia, and mental health conditions. The compressed feeling has been found to allow the wearer to fall asleep more quickly. The deep-touch pressure stimulates the feeling of being hugged, which is known to release emotions and hormones. Children enjoy the comfort of a weighted blanket as it can soothe them as they go to sleep, reducing the stress that comes with going to sleep.
The Benefits
Fighting Stress
Everyone struggles with stress, which is why there are millions of products in the world that help reduce it. Stress can have a negative effect on our mental health, as well as emotional and physical state. A weighted blanket, with its deep touch pressure, may be a temporary relief.
Keep Focused
People with ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity syndrome) often exhibit various symptoms such as lack of focus and restlessness. Weighted blankets with the deep pressure stimulation create a calming and soothing effect.
May Improve Sleep
Sleep is as necessary for the child as it is for the parents, if they're not sleeping you're not sleeping. Lack of sleep can be caused by anxiety, sensitivity or problems with their hormone melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that occurs naturally in your body. It helps control your sleep patterns. Please ask your doctor for more information about melatonin before taking it
Recreates A Hug
We all need a hug sometimes. A hug is known for releasing oxytocin, which is sometimes called the "cuddle hormone." Oxytocin is a hormone that is released in response to love and can help with social bonding. A weighted blanket creates a comfortable cocoon that simulates getting a warm hug from someone.
The Studies and Response
Though there is little research on the effects of using a weighted blanket, some even suggesting that there is little impact, Parent's and children still stand firm that their night-time routine was smoother with a weighted blanket. As they have grown popular over the years there are many reviews on the usage of a weighted blanket.
Weighted blankets are ideal for a few minutes of relaxation time and for occupational therapy. The light touch of a weighted blanket is noticeable and can help comfort. The deep pressure provided by weighted blankets is intended to have a calming, organizing effect.
Overall...
Overall, a using a weighted blanket comes down to your own preference and knowledge. If you are struggling to sleep or need a hug, a weighted blanket may be the next step for you to take. If you have tried product after product to improve you focus, sleep or stress, the weighted blanket (or any of our weighted products) can be a useful tool. As with any medical product, you will need to do research and ask your doctor. As their is little evidence that it does work, scroll through some reviews and try for yourself!
