Do You Have Anxiety? You NEED A Weighted Blanket
A stunning fact about anxiety is that effects about 18% of our total population. Approximately 40 million adults in the U.S. who are 18 or older are suffering from an anxiety disorder. Anxiety has been known to disrupt a person’s life when it comes to jobs, relationships, and their overall well-being.
People who experience anxiety often turn to alternative/natural remedies, pharma drugs, meditation, or even Cognitive Behavioral Therapy otherwise known as CBT. This article is proud to bring weighted blankets into the spotlight as a promising remedy for various types of anxiety disorders. That’s right, blankets that are weighted!
A simple, yet amazing idea brings a blanket that has plastic poly pellets that are sewn into compartments all throughout the entire blanket. This helps distribute the weight properly through the entire blanket. Essentially, the way it works is that the deep pressure from the weighted blanket can calm a person who lies beneath it. All this is due to the added weight, which sends a message to your brain to release neurotransmitters, like serotonin and dopamine, allowing the person to become extremely relaxed.
Weighted blankets were used originally for children who experienced sensory disorders, autism, stress, or anxiety. It’s come to find out that weighted blankets can really help adults too! Karen Moore, OTR/L, occupational therapist located in Franconia, N.C. states this:
“In psychiatric care, weighted blankets are one of our most powerful tools for helping people who are anxious, upset, and possibly on the verge of losing control. These blankets work by providing input to the deep pressure touch receptors throughout the body. Deep pressure touch helps the body relax. Like a firm hug, weighted blankets help us feel secure, grounded, and safe.”
Adults have claimed that they usually prefer to have 15 to 30 pounds in their weighted blanket. However, if you are considering getting one yourself you should consult your doctor or your occupational therapist first before you buy one. The reason why stems from issues like circulatory or respiratory problems. Check with your doctor, especially if you have issues like these, for their opinion.