How Weighted Blankets Benefit Anxious, ADHD Moms

After joining a bunch of ADHD Facebook groups, I’ve noticed frequent discussions about ADHD and terrible anxiety. This brought me to the question: “What other products could help ADHD moms with their anxiety without having to use any more of our “limited” energy?” From there, I discovered something that has helped me relax better for over a year now – weighted blankets!

Weighted blankets do not require brain power or strength work but rather resting in a cozy spot and feeling the deep pressure of comfort for our jittery nervous system. And so in this blog post, we will further explore the power of weighted blankets and how they can benefit ADHD moms with their anxiety.

Head over to my top pick for a weighted blanket and continue with the article about why this brand could be the best option!

My Experience with Weighted Blankets for Sleep Benefits

There’s a fascinating correlation between deep, weighted pressure and enhanced restfulness (particularly amongst children). Think of it as feeling a loved one’s arm cuddled on you and how comforting that is.

My eldest was born premature and had an extended, extensive NICU stay. The nurses always had a heavy, weighted pillow-like item filled with soft, tiny beads (like a beanbag) draped over her body. We discovered the purpose of the weighted item was to mimic a sense of “cuddle.” This was to help the baby feel security, comfort and calmness.

Generally, both my kids sleep better with some weight on them. We would put a pillow or double the blanket on them to keep a “pressed” sensation to help them sleep longer.

Please note that in a home setting, blankets of any kind are not considered safe for infants as they may cause risks for suffocation, as stated in this Healthline article. Babies that use weighted items in the ICU are monitored around the clock by healthcare professionals.

My Daughter’s Use of a Weighted Blanket Became a Resolution For the Whole Family!

My eldest daughter, who is also neurodivergent, would always have a hard time falling asleep and keeping her nerves calm at night. It wasn’t until I spotted a weighted blanket for sale at Walmart a few Christmases ago that I did more research and read about the benefits it could have for sleep and anxiety.

They were pricy! But I was on the quest for the best one in the hope of helping my pre-teen daughter have the quality and safe sleep she deserves. Little did I know how much it also helped me and the rest of the family when we used it too! It helped my youngest have better naps and, oddly, helped my husband suppress his muscle pain after a rough soccer game.

Understanding ADHD and Anxiety

Before delving into the ADHD-related benefits of weighted blankets, let’s briefly understand why ADHD and anxiety often go hand in hand. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder showing difficulties mainly in attention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. However, anxiety is a persistent feeling of worry and fear that can interfere with daily activities. These two together create a complex web of challenges, making it crucial for ADHD moms to find coping mechanisms that are effective for them.

Click on this article about Moms with ADHD to read more on challenges and the small steps we can take to figure out solutions for our anxieties.

The weight of the blanket can have a grounding effect on the body, providing a sense of stability and security. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with sensory processing disorders or anxiety, as it helps to calm the nervous system and promote a sense of calm.

My Issues with Anxiety…

I struggle a lot with my ADHD in many different aspects of my day-to-day life. Being a working full-time mom and juggling the demands of everyday tasks, to-do lists, and responsibilities exacerbates my symptoms. Feeling like a “failure” to function like an average human and not getting things done timely and effectively also increases my insomnia.

Understanding the Science Behind Weighted Blankets

Before we impulsively buy a bunch of weighted blankets, here are a few things you need to know about them.

The science behind weighted blankets is based on Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS) principles and the body’s natural response that triggers a relaxation response. They provide a deep pressure touch that can mimic the feeling of a comforting hug that exerts a soothing effect on the nervous system. Weighted blankets have gained significant popularity in recent years because they are explicitly designed for adults and kids who struggle with anxiety, stress, or sleep disorders.

Hormones That Get Activated By The Use Of Weighted Blankets

Circling back to my experience in the NICU with my daughter – when a weighted item was placed on her body, the pressure it provided created a sensation similar to being hugged or held. Even if we imagine ourselves with that kind of pressure, it often stimulates the release of feeling better. Here are some hormones that can be activated when using a weighted blanket.

This easy-read Harvard study on “Feel Good Hormones” outlines what “good” hormones are and ways to boost your mood by activating them.

1. Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of well-being and relaxation. At the same time, the blanket can also reduce the production of cortisol, a stress hormone associated with anxiety and restlessness.

2. Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates sleep and could also be produced by the weighted pressure from the blanket. This can help individuals fall asleep faster and experience more profound, restful sleep throughout the night, as it does specifically for my daughter and husband, who enjoy using our weighted blanket.

3. Oxytocin

Oxytocin is often called the “cuddle hormone” because it promotes happiness, comfort, and bonding. Using a weighted blanket during moments of stress or feeling overwhelmed can provide an emotional anchor, creating a safe space for self-soothing and emotional regulation.

It’s important to note that while many people find weighted blankets helpful, the science behind them is still emerging, and individual experiences may vary. It’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to determine if a weighted blanket suits your needs.

Benefits of Incorporating Weighted Blankets into Your Routine

To effectively incorporate a weighted blanket into your daily routine, it’s essential to consider size, weight, and material. Choosing a blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight is a general rule of thumb. Explore options made with breathable fabrics and ensure comfort during use. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or occupational therapist for personalized recommendations.

Here are some added benefits to owning a weighted blanket:

1. Managing Sensory Overload

One of the hallmark symptoms of ADHD is sensory sensitivity. Many ADHD moms find themselves easily overwhelmed by external stimuli. Because of their added weight, weighted blankets can be a valuable tool in managing sensory overload. They signal a sense of grounding that can help filter out excessive sensory input and create a more calming environment. The deep touch pressure can help reduce sensory-seeking behaviours or sensory aversions, allowing one to feel more centred and focused.

2. Enhancing Sleep Quality

ADHD often wreaks havoc on sleep patterns, making it challenging for moms to get the restful sleep they need. Weighted blankets can improve sleep quality by promoting security and deep relaxation. The comforting pressure can help reduce restlessness and promote the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, essential for regulating sleep-wake cycles.

3. Reduced Anxiety Symptoms

The deep pressure touch provided by weighted blankets has a tranquillizing effect on the body, helping to alleviate anxiety symptoms. This gentle pressure activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering a relaxation response and reducing the release of stress hormones. As a result, ADHD moms may experience reduced feelings of restlessness, tension, and worry.

4. Fostering Emotional Well-being

ADHD mothers may experience emotional fluctuations and heightened stress levels. Weighted blankets can play a role in regulating these emotions by triggering the release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “cuddle hormone.” This hormone promotes feelings of happiness, comfort, and bonding. Using a weighted blanket during moments of stress or feeling overwhelmed can provide an emotional anchor, creating a safe space for self-soothing and emotional regulation.

The Top Best Weighted Blankets to Consider:

So, Are Weighted Blankets Worth a Try?

As an ADHD mom, finding strategies to navigate daily life with greater ease and peace of mind is crucial. After tackling the day, it makes it even more worthwhile to amplify the quality of how we rest.

Weighted blankets can be valuable in managing sensory overload, enhancing sleep quality, and promoting emotional well-being. The deep pressure stimulation it can give you has been shown to promote better rest, boost those good hormones and experience a sense of comfort and security.

Trying weighted blankets may be the key to unlocking a more peaceful and rejuvenating sleep for busy ADHD moms. Remember, self-care is essential, and investing in tools like weighted blankets can help make that journey a little smoother.