Weighted blankets have been proven by numerous studies in occupational therapy, including the journal of sleep medicine, to be a healthy, stress-relieving tool for those who deal with autism, anxiety, insomnia, and many other health and wellness disorders. On Helixsleep.com, you can find soft and soothing heavy blankets perfect for hanging on the couch or sleeping at night and helpful for those who may be dealing with some of those disorders and mental health issues. When looking for the best-weighted blanket, one should prioritize a soft material that is breathable with firm pressure. This way, using a 10, 15, or 20-pound blanket will lead to health benefits, including a calming effect and much, much more. So, what are some of the additional benefits of a weighted blanket? Let’s go over it all.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Weighted blankets have been shown to have a calming effect on individuals with autism. The symptoms of autism are relieved by the blanket due to the release of serotonin. The neurotransmitters that increase serotonin levels help people feel calm, while melatonin promotes improved sleep.
Individuals with autism tend to struggle with a sensory processing disorder. Weighted blankets help to remedy the issue by helping them feel more calm and relaxed. Get here full size mattress.
Anxiety and Stress
The use of a weighted blanket can help calm one’s nervous system through pressure therapy. This type of therapy has a profound effect on lowering anxiety and stress. Stress hormones are considered one of the primary reasons many lose restful sleep.
Stress and anxiety are also relieved through deep pressure stimulation. The gentle pressure from gravity blankets leads to the effects of deep pressure stimulation, which include a reduction in cortisol (stress hormone), decreased blood pressure, and improved mood.
Insomnia
Weighted blankets work to help those with insomnia disorder sleep better at night. Research shows those with insomnia have higher stress hormone levels at night. Hence, using a heavy blanket and the gentle pressure it provides helps reduce those levels and provide an improved sleep quality while reducing the severity of insomnia.
Other disorders
In addition to anxiety/stress, autism, and insomnia, the deep pressure touch of weighted blankets helps relieve several other disorders. Some of the disorders helped by weighted blankets have ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder), panic attacks, restless leg syndrome, PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), sleep apnea, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, and sleep disorders, among other medical conditions.
The ability of weighted blankets to reduce heart rate and develop a dopamine response has an incredible effect on one’s stress levels, which can make all the difference between a bad and a good night’s sleep.
In summary
It’s important to weigh all the factors when purchasing a weighted blanket; no pun intended. The weight of the blanket should depend on the individual’s body weight and age. The right weighted blanket can have outstanding effects on those with the disorders listed above or those simply looking for improved sleep and added comfort. While studies have shown weighted blankets to be beneficial for those with many disorders, a doctor should always be consulted for medical advice.
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