Weighted blankets are a type of therapeutic blanket that generally weighs between 5 and 30 pounds. The extra weight provides the same impact of a therapeutic technique known as deep pressure stimulation (DPS), which applies pressure via the hands, massage, squeezing, hugging, or tools in order to relax the nervous system. Let’s look at how weighted blankets can be used successfully for an array of health benefits:

1. For autism
Researches have successfully established that managing the symptoms of autism may be possible with reliance on an array of treatments and remedies, like weighted blankets. The touch therapy that weighted blankets provides may be helpful including in reducing the levels of the stress hormone and improving neurotransmitters levels. These gravity blankets positively impact on the impulse control, mood regulation, and more in autistic patients.

2. Weighted blankets for ADHD
A common symptom of ADHD is an inadequate focus, impulsiveness, and restlessness. Lack of focus is a common problem experienced with both adults and kids suffering from this condition, and thus completing any task becomes challenging. Weighted blankets offer deep-touch pressure stimulation, which comes in handy for addressing symptoms common with ADHD patients. Weighted blankets for ADHD deliver minimization of anxiety due to their calming, relaxing nature.

3. For anxiety disorder
It is estimated that anxiety disorders affect more than 40 million Americans, and it is therefore one of the prevalent mental health illnesses. Some studies have revealed that weighted blankets for anxiety disorder have been successful in humans as well as for furry family members like dogs. The deep pressure stimulation of the weighted blankets helps to reduce autonomic arousal reduction, which is caused by cortisol (a stress hormone) that triggers the fight or flight body mechanism.

4. For restless leg syndrome
Also referred to as Willis-Ekbom Disease, restless leg syndrome causes a person to suffer from tingling in legs. The condition tends to worsen when in bed, and that may result in insomnia. This incessant impulse to move the legs can also be problematic for people traveling via car or plane. Weighted blankets are increasingly in use by restless leg patients as a reliable alternative to compression socks because of their calming and comforting effects on the legs.

5. For insomnia
This particular sleeping disorder is characterized by difficulty falling and also staying asleep. It is common knowledge that a healthy sleep lasts around 8 hours and is essential for the maintenance of energy and cognitive function. However for insomniac patients the average sleep duration is only about 3 hours or less per night, which is not restorative levels. The use of weighted blankets can help in the stimulation of the serotonin neurotransmitter and the melatonin hormone. These chemicals are responsible for the general well-being and happiness and sleep regulation.