According to the National Sleep Foundation, many people who struggle with sleep utilize the benefits of a weighted blanket to reduce stress and promote calm. Weighted blankets are used to provide deep pressure stimulation, which is said to mimic the pressure of a hug or a baby’s swaddle. Weighted blankets are typically filled with pellets or beads that make it heavier. They are often used as a therapy to help people with anxiety, autism, and other conditions, in the following ways:

1. Improves sleep quality
Weighted blankets improve sleep quality by providing proprioceptive input to the body. This input helps regulate the body’s production of serotonin and melatonin, which are important for sleep quality. Additionally, weighted blankets can help calm the nervous system, which can lead to a more restful sleep. Finally, the weight of the blanket can also provide physical pressure and warmth, which can help to encourage relaxation and sleep. Overall, weighted blankets are a great way to improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.

2. Reduces stress
Weighted blankets lower stress levels by providing deep touch pressure stimulation. When using a weighted blanket, the user feels hugged or swaddled, which provides a sense of security and reduces stress levels. This can benefit people with anxiety disorders, autism, or sensory processing disorders. Additionally, the weight of the blanket helps ground you, which can also help reduce stress levels. The blanket’s weight can also help activate the body’s parasympathetic nervous system, responsible for calming and relaxing activities.

3. Manages the symptoms of autism
Weighted blankets are often used to manage the symptoms of autism. They can help to calm and soothe those who suffer from the condition. For some people with autism, the blanket’s weight can help regulate their body temperature and promote a feeling of relaxation. Additionally, the blanket can provide a sense of familiarity and comfort that can be soothing for people with autism. Ultimately, using a weighted blanket can help to improve the quality of life for people with autism. The blanket can help make life easier and more comfortable for those who live with autism. Additionally, it can help to improve their overall quality of life.

4. Lessens anxiety
Weighted blankets are thought to help people with anxiety disorders by providing them with a sense of calm and security. The added weight of the blanket is said to help the body relax, leading to a decrease in anxiety symptoms. Some people also find that the blanket’s pressure helps ground them and keep them in the present moment. Overall, weighted blankets are helpful for those who struggle with anxiety disorders or panic attacks.

5. Lowers depression and improves mood
When using a weighted blanket, the weight of the blanket provides pressure on the body. This pressure has been shown to help reduce cortisol levels, decrease depression, and improve mood. By reducing cortisol levels, the weighted blanket may help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Additionally, the pressure from the blanket may help increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which may help to improve mood and relieve depression. Also, the increased input may help to improve focus and concentration and decrease sensory-seeking behaviors. The blankets may also help decrease anxiety by providing a sense of warmth and security.

Weighted blankets are easy to use and provide many health benefits for individuals with different conditions. If you are interested in using a weighted blanket to improve your mood, speak with your doctor first.