Weighted Blankets for Sensory Processing Issues

Sensory processing issues were first identified in the 1970’s by Dr. A. Jean Ayres, an occupational therapist.  The idea being that some brains cannot process all of the information coming in through seven senses, as opposed to the traditional five.  The two additional senses being proprioception, an internal sense of body awareness, and vestibular, or the sense of movement. Sensory processing issues often present separately from other conditions but adults and children with ADHD, Autism, OCD, and other developmental delays will often times have sensory processing issues as well.  Applying pressure to the body calms an overstimulated and frazzled nervous system. The idea of weighted blankets was developed from this concept of applying pressure.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets and Pads

Weighted blankets are used to reduce stress and anxiety in both children and adults with sensory processing disorder or other issues in which sensory processing disorder is a symptom. They help the body to relax and promote better sleep. Studies show that weighted blankets push the body downward, which is referred to “earthing” or “grounding” and simulate deep pressure touch (DPT) which reduces overall stress and high levels of anxiety.

Benefits of weighted blankets include:

• Restful sleep – Weighted blankets provide a more comfortable sleep environment creating a sense of being swaddled, helping the user fall asleep and stay asleep.
• Mimics hugging – Hugging released the hormone oxytocin into the blood stream. Oxytocin plays a role in bonding and social interaction. It also reduces blood pressure and slows the heart rate to assist with relaxation.
• Security – Blankets in general can make one feel secure and safe. Being covered by a warm weighted blanked will provide a feeling of calmness.
• Serotonin production – Serotonin is the happiness hormone, when your body lacks serotonin you may feel depressed, have anxiety, and be unable to sleep (insomnia). Weighted blankets increase serotonin production in the body.
• Melatonin production –  The gentle yet firm pressure provided by a weighted blanked stimulates the release of melatonin which helps to induce sleep.
• Improve cognitive function – Sleeping with a weighted blanket promotes overall well-being with less stress, less tension, and better sleep which improves a person’s cognitive functions.

Making Your Own Weighted Blanket

In some cases, insurance companies may cover weighted blankets with a prescription from a doctor and may also be tax deductible as medical expenses. If you are crafty and enjoy quilting, you can even make a DIY weighted blanket.  Typical guidelines for the weight of weighted blankets is 10% of the blanket users body weight + 2-4 pounds depending on blanket size.

• A DIY guide to making your weighted blankets using plastic pellets can be found here.
• Use a Pillow Pet to make a weighted blanket.  
• 13 more great tutorials can be found here.

Many children and families are already benefiting from weighted blankets. It is recommended that you consult your child’s occupational therapist to get their recommendation for exact blanket weight.

You can search for an Occupational Therapist in your zipcode at kidstherapyfinder.com.  Not sure what an Occuptational Therapist does?  Learn more in our video section.