Difficulty sleeping can be an issue for many autistics, and some find the pressure of a weighted blanket has a calming effect that induces sleep. Apparently, the pressure of the blanket acts like a hug, causing the sleeper’s brain to produce ‘feel good’ hormones such as serotonin, dopamine and melatonin. Cozy Calm weighted blankets are made with medicinal-grade plastic beads that are sewn in so the weight is evenly distributed, with double insulating layers for added comfort. Cozy Calm’s owner, Eileen Parker, is herself autistic and has Sensory Processing Disorder. She couldn’t find the right blanket and started making her own. The rest, as they say, is history. The blankets are custom-made to a specified weight, and a common formula is 10% body weight plus 1 pound. The Cozy Calm site has a weight chart listing the most popular weights ordered.