The Science of Weighted Blankets and How They Help Promote Sleep

Deep touch pressure therapy is a concept typically used for treatment of sensory processing disorders, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, and attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The relaxing sensation caused by deep touch pressure therapy can soothe the symptoms created by these disorders and — in the case of weighted blankets — help with sleep.

If you have a sleep disorder or find it difficult to sleep at night — especially due to anxiety-related insomnia — you might benefit from a weighted blanket. Need more sleep tips?

• Learn more about the four stages of REM sleep.

• Check out these 6 products that might help you sleep better.

• Find out the best sleep position to reduce snoring.

• Here are 11 tips to sleep better tonight.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Sarah Gupta, MD

Sarah Gupta, MD, is a licensed physician with a special interest in mental health, sex and gender, eating disorders, and the human microbiome. She is currently board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology.

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