Do You Sleep with a Stuffed Animal? You May be Getting Better Sleep than Most

By: Krysten Brenlla

In today’s fast-paced world, getting a good night’s sleep can be a challenge for most adults. However, did you know that adding comforting items like stuffed animals or weighted blankets into your bedtime routine might offer benefits for a more restful night?

Why do stuffed animals help adults sleep?

Hugging your favorite childhood stuffed animal while sleeping can provide a sense of comfort, safety, relaxation, and nostalgia, which can lead to:

• Emotional support and stress reduction – Holding a stuffed animal can trigger the release of oxytocin, the same hormone associated with feelings of bonding and trust. This can be especially helpful for those experiencing loneliness or stress.
• A sense of routine and stability – Many people associate stuffed animals with childhood routines, providing a sense of familiarity and consistency that can make it easier to wind down at night.
• Aid for anxiety and trauma recovery – Adults who’ve experienced trauma, grief, or post-traumatic stress disorder may find that sleeping with a stuffed animal offers a soothing, grounding effect. Studies have shown that comfort objects can help create a sense of safety, similar to the way therapy animals support people with anxiety disorders.
• Easing sleep onset – Some people struggle with falling asleep. A comforting object can shift attention away from racing thoughts, and help the brain relax into a restful state.

The Science Behind Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are designed to apply gentle, even pressure across the body, a method known as deep pressure stimulation. This pressure can stimulate the release of serotonin, which can be converted into melatonin – the hormone responsible for regulating sleep – and dopamine, all chemicals that promote relaxation in the body and improve mood.

Additionally, for adults who sleep alone, the sensation of being gently held by a weighted blanket can even lower cortisol levels, the hormone associated with stress.

Integrating Comfort Items into Your Sleep Routine

Incorporating stuffed animals or weighted blankets into your bedtime routine can help improve your mood and overall health.

Maria V. Suurna, MD, director of sleep surgery at UHealth – University of Miami Health System, says sleep is personal, and people should identify what works best for them every night.

“Everybody’s sleep is different, and everybody has their own routines. We do know that anxiety and stress can impair quality of sleep, with some people experiencing difficulty falling or even staying asleep,” Dr. Suurna said. “Identifying individualized approaches to sleep, like sleep habits and proper sleep environments, is very important – especially to help ease sleep anxiety and to experience more nights of rest.”

If you’re considering a plush companion for your nighttime routine:

• Choose what feels right: Whether it’s a cherished stuffed animal from childhood or a new weighted blanket, select items that provide you with the most comfort.
• Ensure cleanliness: Regularly clean your comfort items to maintain a healthy sleep environment.
• Talk to a doctor: If you have underlying health conditions, like respiratory or circulatory issues, talk to a doctor before using a weighted blanket to ensure it’s right for you.

Embracing comfort items like stuffed animals or weighted blankets can be a simple yet effective strategy to enhance sleep quality and overall well-being.
As with any sleep aid, it’s important to choose what works best for you, and consult with your doctor if you have questions or concerns. Sweet dreams!