Dr. Joseph Mercola - Take Control of Your Health Do Weighted Blankets Really Ease Stress and Anxiety?
Oct 7, 2025
Discover how weighted blankets provide deep pressure stimulation, promoting relaxation and better sleep. A Chinese study highlights their effectiveness in improving insomnia and reducing anxiety. Psychiatric patients also report less fatigue and depression with their use. Real-world hospital data shows dramatic calming effects for stressed individuals. While a non-drug sleep solution, it's vital to choose the right weight and consult a clinician for specific health issues. Pairing use with good sleep practices enhances results.
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How Weighted Blankets Work
- Weighted blankets deliver deep pressure stimulation that signals the nervous system to settle.
- Occupational therapists used them for sensory regulation before mainstream adoption.
Clinical Trial Shows Sleep Gains
- A 2024 randomized trial found weighted blankets nearly doubled sleep-quality improvement versus regular blankets.
- Actigraphy showed longer sleep time and higher sleep efficiency for users.
Benefits In Psychiatric Populations
- Psychiatric patients also showed improved insomnia and reduced daytime fatigue, anxiety, and depression with weighted blankets.
- Better sleep translated into more daytime energy and functioning.