Everything You Need to Know About Veteran Blankets
If you’ve searched for “veteran blanket” online, you likely have many questions about these special blankets. As a veteran myself who has struggled with restlessness and nightmares after coming home, I understand the need for soothing comfort. In this article, I’ll explain everything you need to know about veteran blankets so you can decide if one might help you or a loved one.
What is a Veteran Blanket?
A veteran blanket, sometimes called a weighted blanket, is a thick blanket containing polyester pellets or other material that adds weight without additional warmth. The extra weight provides what’s known as deep touch pressure stimulation (DTPS).
DTPS replicates the feeling of being hugged or held, triggering the parasympathetic nervous system to help relax the body and calm the mind. It’s similar to how babies find swaddling blankets soothing. For veterans dealing with PTSD, anxiety, insomnia or other conditions, the calming effect can be enormously helpful.
How Do Veteran Blankets Work?
The weight of the blanket, usually 10-25% of a person’s body weight, triggers pressure receptors in the skin that signal the brain. This activates the relaxation response and decreases serotonin and cortisol levels associated with stress. It has a calming effect on the nervous system, slowing heart rate, easing breathing and relaxing muscles.
The blanket also provides a feeling of safety and security. It’s like getting a full-body hug without another person. Lying under the weight is grounding and helps take your mind off worries, trauma-related thoughts or nightmares. You feel soothed and supported rather than anxious and restless.
Benefits of Veteran Blankets
Veteran blankets provide numerous mental and physical benefits:
- Improved sleep – Deeper, more restorative sleep is one of the top reported effects.
- Reduced stress and anxiety – The calming weight greatly decreases levels of stress hormones.
- Relief from PTSD symptoms – It helps manage nightmares, flashbacks and hypervigilance associated with PTSD.
- Better mood – People often report feeling happier, more content and relaxed with a weighted blanket.
- Pain relief – It can also ease aches, pains and muscle tension from injuries or overexertion.
Speaking from experience, my weighted blanket remarkably improved both my sleep quality and mood. The comfort it provides is impossible to overstate. It’s made a huge difference in my quality of life after coming home from deployment.
Who Benefits Most from a Veteran Blanket?
While they can help anyone feeling anxious or having sleep issues, veteran blankets seem especially effective for those struggling with:
- PTSD – They provide grounding for veterans dealing with trauma memories and nightmares.
- Anxiety disorders – Great for calming racing thoughts, panic attacks and restlessness.
- Insomnia – The weight promotes deeper, more restorative sleep.
- Sensory issues – For those bothered by other tactile sensations, the controlled pressure is soothing.
- ADD/ADHD – Can help those with focus/concentration issues relax and unwind at night.
The weight is also beneficial for older veterans with arthritis or other pains. So pretty much anyone feeling stressed or uneasy could find relief under a weighted wrap. Still, talk to your doc if you have other health issues.
Choosing the Right Veteran Blanket
When shopping for a weighted blanket, consider these factors:
Weight – Most experts recommend 10-12% of your body weight for adults. Any heavier may feel oppressive rather than comforting.
Material – Look for breathable cotton or bamboo on the exterior with polyester pellets or glass beads inside for weight. Avoid plastic beads that can clump.
Size – Get a blanket that will fully cover your torso and upper legs for full-body comfort but not be too long you can’t move easily.
Washable – Opt for a removable, machine-washable duvet cover to keep it clean longer between washings.
Return policy – In case the weight isn’t right for your needs, pick a brand with a good return window to exchange sizes.
With some trial and error, you’ll find your perfect weighted wrap for relaxing bliss. As the saying goes, “This blanket’s got you.”
FAQs About Veteran Blankets
Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
Are they hot? No, most are specifically designed not to trap extra body heat. The weight feels comforting without added warmth.
Will I get used to the weight? Your body does adjust, but you’ll always feel that calming pressure. It never gets old or loses its soothing effect, in my experience.
Are they just for bed? Many find weighted blankets relaxing anywhere – on the couch watching TV, in a recliner, or even outside on a camping chair on a sunny day.
How long until I feel the benefits? Most notice relaxation within minutes, but full effects on sleep, mood etc. may take a week or two of regular use as your body adjusts to the deep touch pressure simulations.
Can my family/partner use it too? Absolutely! Their relaxing effects can benefit anyone. My wife now enjoys ours as much as I do.
I hope this gives you a thorough understanding of how veteran blankets work and provides relief. Finding your perfect match could really improve quality of life, so give one a try if you’re feeling anxious or troubled by restless nights.
Wishing you smooth sailing and sweet dreams! Let me know if any other questions come up.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Warm Veteran Blanket
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Material | Wool, cotton, fleece – choose based on warmth, weight, texture preference. |
| Weight | Heavier blankets retain more body heat but may be too warm indoors. |
| Size | Twin, full, queen, king – size should match your bed for full coverage. |
| Fill | Down alternative, silk, polyester – different fills provide varying warmth and durability. |
| Care requirements | Consider fiber, washer/dryer safe versus dry clean only for ease of care. |
| Warmth rating | Summer, all-season, winter – rating informs use for different temperature levels. |
FAQ
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What is a veteran blanket?
A veteran blanket is a weighted blanket that is sometimes recommended for veterans coping with PTSD, anxiety, or insomnia. The heaviness of the blanket can feel comforting like a hug.
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How can a veteran blanket help?
Some veterans say the weighted blanket helps them feel safe and calm. The light pressure may release calming hormones in the body. It can soothe that “on edge” feeling and make it easier to relax. At the same time, the blanket is still cozy like a regular blanket so it don’t feel too heavy or weird.
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What weight blanket is best for veterans?
Most experts recommend a blanket that’s about 10% of the person’s body weight. So if someone weighs 150 pounds, they would get a 15 pound blanket. Anything under 10 pounds may not be heavy enough. Over 20 pounds could feel too intense for some folks. Basically, you want it to feel like a nice firm hug without being overwhelming.
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Do weighted blankets really work?
Studies show weighted blankets can help reduce stress and anxiety for many people. Whether it’s the light pressure or maybe just the calming effect of something snuggly, lots of vets and civilians seem to find relief. Of course, YMMV and what works for some may not work for others. Maybe give it a try though – if you don’t like it, return policies allow exchanges usually.
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How much does a veteran blanket cost?
Prices can vary quite a bit depending on size, weight, and brand. Generally expect to pay between $80-$200 for a good quality weighted blanket made for adults. They tend to be a serious investment compared to a regular blanket. Nevertheless, if it provides comfort and better sleep, isn’t that worth it in the long run?
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Are there other weighted options besides blankets?
Yes indeed. Some vets prefer weighted lap pads, vests, or slings that cover just part of the body. This allows movement without the full-body pressure. Weighted accessories and toys exist too. And you can DIY a weighted item by sewing plastic pellets in a fabric case. So don’t get bummed if a blanket isn’t your style – there are other weighted picks that may click better.