In recent years, weighted blankets have been touted as a viable option for people who suffer from anxiety. Studies have been conducted to determine whether weighted blankets can help reduce symptoms of anxiety. This article will explore the potential benefits of weighted blankets for those experiencing anxiety.
1. Introduction to Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets, also referred to as gravity blankets, I advertised as a natural and non-invasive way to reduce anxiety symptoms. This type of blanket typically contains small beads or pellets evenly distributed throughout, providing enough pressure to help soothe and calm those with anxiety-related conditions.
Benefits of Weighted Blankets:
- May help calm the body and mind
- May help reduce symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, and insomnia
- Maintains a comfortable temperature for increased relaxation
- Increases serotonin levels in the body
- Decreases levels of cortisol and norepinephrine in the body
A study conducted by agents of the Journal of Sleep Medicine suggests that sensations of touch and proprioception affect our ability to be calm and relaxed. Weighted blankets help by providing a gentle “hug” to the user. This weighted compression in turn can stimulate the production of the calming hormones oxytocin and serotonin.
In terms of anxiety, research has suggested that weighted blankets can be an effective tool to feel calm and safe. One study checked out 71 adults who used weighted blankets against those who used traditional blankets for four weeks. The results showed that those using the weighted blanket reported significant decreases in nighttime anxiety symptoms and statistically significant improvements in overall sleep quality.
Overall, weighted blankets may help create a calming environment which can indirectly support better sleep and reduce the likelihood of experiencing anxiety during the night.
2. Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Anxiety
Weighted blankets have been found to help people living with anxiety due to the way they can create a feeling of safety and calmness. The deep pressure stimulation from the blanket helps to activate the body’s nervous system and decrease levels of cortisol, the stress hormone.
Snuggling up with a weighted blanket can provide a sense of security and comfort. It creates a gentle hug effect which helps to reduce anxiety levels and encourages relaxation. This type of comforting pressure aids in better sleep and helps people manage insomnia associated with anxiety.
Weighted blankets provide users with gentle pressure that assists with the body’s natural calming processes, such as:
- Decreasing heart rate
- Reducing physical tension
- Slowing down breathing rates
- Regulating hormones
Weighted blankets can also have a non-direct, positive effect on anxiety levels over time. They can provide a sense of comfort and ease to individuals with anxiety by providing a sense of control over their own environment and actions.
3. How Do Weighted Blankets Work?
Weighted blankets are essentially heavy blankets filled with micro-glass beads, which are usually distributed evenly throughout the blanket. These special blankets apply gentle, calming pressure to the body, helping to produce a sensation of comfort and safety. Here are three ways that weighted blankets can help ease feelings of anxiety:
- First, the pressure from the weighted blanket can reduce the production of cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone”, thus promoting a sense of relaxation.
- Second, weighted blankets can increase the release of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for regulating mood, emotions, and sleep.
- Finally, the pressure from weighted blankets gives the body the sensation of being hugged, which is known to help reduce anxiety levels and induce warmth and security.
Weighted blankets can help those with anxiety feel safer and calmer by providing a completely natural way to reduce stress and improve sleep quality. Clinical studies involving people using weighted blankets for depression, autism, ADHD, and insomnia have found these special blankets to be incredibly effective for everyday physical and emotional comfort.
4. Potential Drawbacks of Using Weighted Blankets for Anxiety
Using weighted blankets for anxiety may sound appealing, but could present a few potential drawbacks as well.
Weighted blankets are not a cure for anxiety. While a weighted blanket might make you feel more secure and grounded, it will not treat or cure an anxiety disorder. Patients should not replace traditional treatments and therapies with weighted blankets, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Health risks. In some cases, weighted blankets might be inappropriate for people with certain health conditions. For example, people with breathing difficulties, sweating, back pain, or heart problems might not be able to use a weighted blanket safely. People who already feel overwhelmed and “weighed down” may also be negatively affected by an additional layer of physical weight.
Costs. Weighted blankets are often more expensive than traditional blankets or comforters and may require extra care. Additionally, they are usually much heavier than traditional blankets, making them difficult to store and transport.
Mold and mildew. Weighted blankets can be difficult to clean. Traditional washing machines and dryers may not be able to accommodate them. Failing to properly clean and dry the blanket can cause mold and mildew to grow, leading to further health issues related to the respiratory system, such as allergies or asthma.
Related: Are You Sleepy or Just Tired?
Q&A
Q: What is a weighted blanket?
A: A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is filled with tiny pellets, usually made of glass, ceramic, or plastic, which makes the blanket feel heavier.
Q: How does a weighted blanket help with anxiety?
A: The extra weight of a weighted blanket provides a feeling of deep pressure touch stimulation, which helps to increase serotonin and dopamine levels in the body. Serotonin and dopamine are hormones that help regulate emotions and mood, thus reducing stress, anxiety, and other symptoms of anxiety.
Q: What benefits does using a weighted blanket have?
A: Weighted blankets can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, improve sleep, reduce hyperactivity, and reduce symptoms associated with anxiety.
Q: Are weighted blankets safe to use?
A: Yes, weighted blankets are generally considered safe to use. However, it’s always a good idea to discuss your personal situation with your healthcare provider to see if a weighted blanket is the best option for you.
Q: Are there any side effects associated with using a weighted blanket?
A: Generally speaking, there are no known side effects associated with using a weighted blanket. However, some people may find the extra weight uncomfortable or difficult to move around with. Additionally, you should never use a weighted blanket if you have any respiratory conditions such as sleep apnea.
Conclusion
Overall, weighted blankets can provide comfort and relief for those who suffer from anxiety. Their growing popularity suggests that many can benefit from their use, but it is important to discuss any changes you make to your routine with your doctor or healthcare provider.
Lori Randolph is an expert in technology and innovation, crafting informative and accessible articles that demystify complex concepts. With a knack for breaking down technical jargon, he empowers readers to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and make informed decisions in a rapidly advancing digital landscape.