A new review has found that weighted blankets can help improve sleep in adults with insomnia and other mental health conditions, including anxiety and depression, but results are mixed for children. Led by occupational therapist and Flinders University researcher Dr Suzanne Dawson, the study found the blankets were effective in improving sleep, reducing medication use, and enhancing mood. Sleep is a basic human need and when someone isn’t getting enough, it can lead to numerous health issues as well as increase the risk of, or exacerbate, chronic conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and mental health issues Despite strong evidence for adult use, findings were mixed for the use of weighted blankets with children, with limited sleep improvements for children with conditions such as ADHD or autism spectrum disorder. While the findings show overnight use of weighted blankets can be recommended for adults and trailed-in children, the authors say the next step is to develop clear clinical guidelines for the blankets’ use. “This scoping review was conducted to inform practice change and we are pleased that the findings were used to change the state-wide protocols for the use of weighted blankets across public mental health services in South Australia Blankets come in in various types, from containing beads or chains, and various weights, but as yet no standardized recommendations exist, including type, weight, frequency of use, or duration.
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Thursday, June 26, 2025