Yes, weighted blankets can help improve sleep for some people. They are designed to provide gentle, even pressure across the body, a concept known as deep pressure stimulation (DPS) or deep touch pressure (DTP). This effect is similar to the feeling of being hugged or swaddled, which can promote relaxation and a sense of security.
Here’s how weighted blankets may help with sleep:
1. **Promote Relaxation**: The pressure can trigger the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which improve mood and induce a sense of calm.
2. **Reduce Anxiety**: The calming effect can lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), which is often a barrier to falling or staying asleep.
3. **Increase Melatonin**: Serotonin is a precursor to melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep cycles. By boosting serotonin, weighted blankets may help increase natural melatonin production.
4. **Improve Sleep Quality for Certain Conditions**:
– People with anxiety, insomnia, or sensory processing disorders (including autism)
– Individuals with ADHD or PTSD have reported improved sleep using weighted blankets in some studies.
However, weighted blankets may not work for everyone. They might not be effective for severe sleep disorders, and some people may find them too hot or restrictive. It’s important to choose the right weight—typically about 10% of your body weight—and talk to a healthcare provider, especially if you have respiratory, circulatory, or mobility issues.
In summary, while not a cure-all, weighted blankets can be a helpful tool for improving sleep and reducing anxiety in many individuals.
