Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after a traumatic event that leaves deep scars on memory and the body. The nervous system remains alert, as if the danger were still present. Sounds, sights, or smells can suddenly trigger tension, even in a safe environment.
With PTSD, the body doesn't respond to words, but to signals of safety. Deep pressure—like the tightening hug of a Hugsback—helps the nervous system remember that the danger has passed.
Why tension in PTSD remains so strong
After trauma, the brain becomes disrupted. The amygdala, the brain region that controls fear, remains overactive, while the part of the brain that regulates calmness is underactivated. As a result, the body reacts as if danger still looms—even when it doesn't.
This constant hypervigilance exhausts the body. Recovery requires time, trust, and physical relaxation. A sense of safety is essential, and that can be restored through touch, rhythm, and deep pressure.
When do you notice the signals most strongly?
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During sleep or flashbacks – Nightmares or memories can cause tension and disrupt sleep.
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In case of unexpected stimuli or sounds – A sudden sound or touch can immediately trigger a stress reaction.
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In social situations or busy environments – Unpredictability or unknown people can create a sense of insecurity.
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With memories or symbols of the trauma – Certain images, smells or words can activate tension without any direct cause.
How can you create more peace? (4 steps)
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Recognize the signs of tension or reliving
Rapid breathing, tense muscles or a full head are signs that the body goes into survival mode. -
Use the Hugsback weighted cuddly toy
The deep pressure stimulates the part of the nervous system responsible for recovery. It helps release tension and make the body feel safe again. -
Create a safe, quiet environment
Avoid loud noises and unexpected stimuli. A quiet space and a familiar object, like Hugsback, help calm the nervous system. -
Give time and space to recovery
Processing trauma requires calm and repetition. Gentle touch and closeness support this process better than words can.
Applications in daily life
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During flashbacks or sleepless nights
The constant pressure of Hugsback helps the body relax and reduces physical stress responses. -
After intensive therapy or sessions
Hugsback supports the body in releasing tension, so that peace returns more quickly. -
In daily moments of rest
The recognisable shape and pressure provide stability and security, which strengthens recovery step by step.
Scientific substantiation
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72% of PTSD participants reported less hyperalertness and tension after applying aggravating pressure
(Journal of Traumatic Stress, 2020) -
61% experienced fewer nightmares and improved sleep quality thanks to weighted toys
(Military Medicine, 2021) -
54% reported fewer anxiety peaks during flashbacks
(Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2023)
Research shows that deep pressure helps restore the natural balance of the autonomic nervous system — the foundation for calm, safety, and recovery.
User experiences
- "PTSD caused me to have frequent nightmares. With the stuffed animal, I fall asleep more peacefully and feel safer." — Kevin D.
- "After EMDR sessions, the Hugsback helps me relax. It calms my body down faster." — Janneke V.
- "During moments of panic, I use it as an anchor. It helps me come back to the present." — Sophie N.
Conclusion
Recovery from PTSD begins with safety. Not with words, but with a sense of security that the body recognizes. The deep, soothing pressure of a Hugsback weighted hug helps release tension, reduce anxiety, and gradually restore trust.
A simple touch can make the difference between holding tension and learning to relax again.
