Weighted blankets make the world a better place. Don’t worry, we’re prepared to back up our bold claim: a weighted blanket allows you to enjoy longer, more restful sleep. That comforting, deep-touch pressure stimulation will eliminate tossing and turning so you wake up feeling ready for anything. And can you imagine how happy the world would be if everyone was consistently getting 8 hours of quality z’s?
But weighted blankets give us more than warm fuzzies and better sleep. For many people, a weighted blanket can improve mental health, reduce physical pain, and more. So exactly what are weighted blankets good for? Check out our list to learn more.
1. People with Sleep Disorders
Weighted blankets can help anyone sleep better, including those with sleep disorders like insomnia and restlessness. As the blanket stimulates feel-good serotonin hormones, the body also releases melatonin, which promotes sleepiness and regulates the sleep cycle. The weight of the blanket offers a calming effect that is a natural alternative to other sleep aids.
2. People with Autism
Touch and massage therapy has been known to help kids and adults with autism by decreasing cortisol and lowering stress. Because a weighted blanket feels like a warm hug, it can offer the same benefits of touch therapy, all from the comfort of home.
3. People with OCD
Many people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) have intrusive, persistent thoughts that alter their actions and make it hard to go about everyday life. These thoughts can be more intrusive when serotonin levels are low. Because a weighted blanket can boost serotonin, it may help keep OCD under control.
4. People with Depression or Anxiety
Those who experience depression or anxiety often have trouble falling asleep at night, as troubling thoughts keep their mind reeling and prevent them from drifting off to sleep. But a weighted blanket can deliver that calming effect necessary to ease anxiety, boost the mood, and improve sleep.
5. People with Restless Leg Syndrome
People with restless leg syndrome have an almost irresistible urge to move their legs, usually due to an uncomfortable sensation. This can make it nearly impossible to get quality sleep, since the tingling sensation in the legs is more obvious when lying down. A weighted blanket can be a great alternative to itchy, tight compression socks, offering a similar pressure without any constriction.
6. People with Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, and Other Pain
For those looking for a natural alternative to painkillers, a weighted blanket might be just the cure. The firm, balanced pressure of a weighted blanket feels comforting for anyone, but it can also help reduce discomfort for people who suffer from arthritis, fibromyalgia, or other types of physical pain.
7. People with ADHD
Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder is a problem affecting an increasing number of kids and adults alike. People with this condition often have trouble focusing in school and suffer from restless sleep, but a weighted blanket can help, since they make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
8. People with PTSD
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is often associated with people who have fought in wars, but it can also affect anyone who has been through a seriously traumatic event. A weighted blanket can serve as an effective form of therapy for these people by providing a gentle, calming touch that improves the pulse and blood pressure.
