ASD and Asperger’s syndrome

Autism; often referred to as ASD (autism spectrum disorder) can affect the way a person interacts with others in social situations, communication with others and how the person experiences the world around them. Autism is not a learning disability, but around half of people with autism may also have a learning disability.

Asperger's syndrome is a form of autism which may also affect the way a person communicates and relates to other people. People with Asperger's syndrome may experience challenges such as specific learning difficulties, anxiety or other conditions. However, people with Asperger's syndrome will not have a learning disability, as they will have an average or above average intelligence.

The signs of autism may include symptoms such as sleep disturbances, hyperactivity, restlessness, frustration and violent behaviour. A weighted cover may help improve these symptoms.

The weight of the cover gives the body the feeling of being hugged, this deep pressure stimulation (DPS) leads to a state of relaxation. When you apply deep pressure to the body it switches from “fight or flight” mode to “rest and digest”. The pressure triggers a chain reaction in the body that releases an overall sense of calm and peace.

It’s been proven that a weighted cover can lower cortisol levels (the stress hormone) and promote production of the happiness hormone - serotonin and the sleep hormone - melatonin. The reduction in cortisol and increase in serotonin and melatonin combine to make the muscles and nervous system relax.

A weighted cover helps: • the muscles and nervous system relax reducing symptoms, such as restlessness and aggression • improve sleep quality aiding recovery of a stressed body • self-regulation