<a href="https://www.world-today-news.com/here-is-the-item-that-would-help-calm-anxiety-and-sleep-well-in-case-of-mild-sleep-disorders/” title=”Here is the item that would help calm anxiety and sleep well in case of mild sleep disorders”>Weighted blankets are touted as a miracle cure for sleep disorders, anxiety and depression. But what does science say about this?
Researchers at Flinders University in Australia investigated this question in a new study.
Under the direction of Dr. Suzanne Dawsona doctor specializing in mental health, the team found that positive results were reported in terms of improving sleep, reducing medication use and improving mood.
“Weighted blankets appear to be a tangible, non-drug intervention to improve sleep quality“, Dawson said in a statement.
“Adults who used the blankets reported better sleep, reduced use of sleeping pills, and even improvements in mood and pain management.”she added.
However, the researchers emphasized that these results were obtained in adults.
The results for children and young people were mixed, according to the team’s findings American Journal of Occupational Therapy were published. The study was an analysis of 18 existing studies.
The team explained that the next step is to develop clear clinical guidelines for the use of blankets that take into account the weight of the blanket and safety considerations such as the user’s ability to remove the blanket themselves.
“We are pleased that the results have been used to change statewide protocols for the use of weighted blankets in public mental health services in South Australia.”said Dawson.
“There are different types of blankets with plastic, glass or stainless steel beads and different weights, but until now there have been no standardized recommendations for type, weight, frequency or duration of use.”
Eric Zhou was not involved in the study. He says:
“Due to the limited number of publications in this area, the authors were only able to include a small number of studies in their review, many of which were conducted by the same group of researchers or on a specific subpopulation”he added.
Lack of sleep on the rise
“Sleep is a basic human need, and not getting enough of it can lead to numerous health problems and increase or worsen the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke and mental health problems.”so Dawson.
Previous studies have shown that sleep deprivation is associated with numerous negative effects on cognitive function and emotions.
“Although further studies are needed to determine optimal use, the use of weighted blankets in practice should be further researched”so Dawson.
