New Research Reveals Weighted Blankets Can Enhance Sleep and Boost Mood

Anyone who has slept under a weighted blanket knows it feels like a comforting embrace. A recent study published in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and peer-reviewed by Flinders University found that weighted blankets can serve as an effective sleep aid for people with various health issues, while also enhancing mood and reducing pain. Dr. Suzanne Dawson, an occupational therapist and researcher at Flinders University, notes, 'Adults using these blankets experienced better sleep, decreased reliance on sleep medications, and notable improvements in mood and pain control.'

If you deal with anxiety, overheating, or chronic pain, a weighted blanket might improve your sleep and emotional well-being (plus, they’re easy to maintain!). Below, we break down the study’s findings and how they could transform your sleep experience.

What Makes Weighted Blankets So Good for Sleep?

Weighted blankets are made from materials such as microfiber beads, sand, steel beads, pebbles, and grains. The study analyzed 18 existing studies involving adults and children with sleep issues who used weighted blankets overnight for therapeutic benefits. 

Dr. Dawson notes, 'Parents observed that their children seemed calmer, less anxious, and more focused in daily activities when using weighted blankets, potentially improving their long-term well-being. While further research is needed to determine their best use, weighted blankets should be more widely integrated into practice.' For instance, the study’s results helped enhance mental health protocols across South Australia.

Who Should Consider Sleeping With a Weighted Blanket?

If you experience back pain, insomnia, or difficulty concentrating, a weighted blanket could be an effective solution for improving sleep. Additionally, Dr. Dawson is leading a related project investigating how weighted blankets benefit dementia patients.

The project aims to conduct a phased study to 1) evaluate how effective weighted blankets are as a sleep aid for dementia patients; 2) identify obstacles and enablers for their use; and 3) collaboratively develop a strategy for broader implementation in various settings. Give it a try yourself to potentially enhance your sleep quality!