Is the effectiveness of weighted blankets scientifically proven? New study provides answers.
Many customers are already convinced of the effects of therapy blankets. They notice changes in their own bodies when using the heavy blanket, feel more relaxed, can sleep better, and find calm. However, some people who hear about the concept of weighted blankets for the first time are skeptical and cannot believe this phenomenon. It is not uncommon for the question to arise whether the effectiveness of weighted blankets is actually proven or if the body is just being deceived.
Scientifically unproven does not mean ineffective
So far, it has been challenging to engage with the effects of weighted blankets. Science has long shown interest in the topic, and therapeutic professionals are also paying attention. Not without reason, as not only patients themselves report positive experiences, but tests conducted specifically also suggest that the positive claims of a therapy blanket are indeed true.
Often, however, high study requirements and the measurement of well-being stand in the way of science, and earlier studies provide more hints than tangible results.
A new study sheds light in the dark
With the study published in 2020 by Ekholm, Spulber, and Adler from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, there are promising scientific findings. They investigated the effect of weighted blankets on insomnia in people with psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and ADHD. A total of 120 patients received either a light blanket or a weighted blanket for four weeks. Several psychology-validated self-assessment questionnaires were used for measurement. The results clearly showed that people who used a weighted blanket slept better, had more energy during the day, and struggled less with common daytime symptoms such as fatigue, depressed mood, and anxiety.
After 12 months, the scientists from Clinical Neuroscience returned and were still able to observe positive effects on sleep among weighted blanket users. This indicates that heavy blankets can be used effectively and safely for sleep disorders in patients with the aforementioned conditions, and as positive side effects, symptoms during the day are reduced and daytime activity is improved.
Why is it important to scientifically prove the effect of weighted blankets?
The study scientifically confirms what we have already observed personally. This does not mean that a therapy blanket must be successful for everyone. However, the effectiveness is officially recognized, knowledge can be shared, and therapists can specifically use it in the treatment of patients. Additionally, there remains hope that with increased scientific evidence, weighted blankets will be included in the health insurance catalog of aids. This could enable more people to acquire a therapy blanket that can contribute to mental and physical health.
Read the entire study here. On our Science page, you will also find an overview of other conducted studies on weighted blankets.
Source: Ekholm, Bodil; Spulber, Stefan; Adler, Mats. A randomized controlled study of weighted chain blankets for insomnia in psychiatric disorders. J Clin Sleep Med. 2020 Sep 15;16(9):1567-1577.