What is PTSD ?

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) develops after a traumatic event that leaves deep scars on memory and the body. The nervous system remains on high alert, as if the danger were still present. Memories, sounds, or smells can suddenly trigger tension and disrupt the sense of safety.

Who will be affected ?

Veterans and aid workers

They often experience intense situations and afterwards remain sensitive to stimuli, sounds or unexpected movements.

Victims of violence or accidents

Sudden trauma can cause profound fear and alertness, even long after the event.

Children or young people with traumatic experiences

In young people, PTSD often manifests itself in sleep problems, lack of concentration or sudden mood swings.

People who have experienced grief or loss

Emotional trauma leaves the body in a constant state of tension, making recovery difficult.

 
 

Why does tension remain so strong in PTSD?

After trauma, the brain becomes disrupted. The amygdala—responsible for fear—remains overactive, while the part that regulates calmness is underactivated. Even when the danger has passed, the body still reacts as if it were threatening. Recovery requires time, safety, and deep physical relaxation.

When do you notice the signals most strongly?

During sleep or flashbacks

Flashes of memories or nightmares make sleeping difficult and keep the body tense.

In case of unexpected stimuli or sounds

Sudden sounds or touches can instantly trigger a stress response in the body.

In social situations or busy environments

Crowds and unknown people can create a feeling of insecurity.

With memories or symbols of the trauma

Certain images, smells or words can suddenly activate tension without any apparent reason.

 
 

How can you bring more peace ? (4 steps)

  • Recognize the signs of tension or reliving

    Rapid breathing, tense muscles or sudden alertness are signs that the body is going into defense mode.

  • Use the Hugsback weighted cuddly toy

    The deep pressure stimulates the part of the nervous system responsible for rest and recovery. It helps to reduce tension more quickly.

  • Create a safe, quiet environment

    Avoid loud noises and unexpected stimuli. Hugsback reinforces feelings of safety and stability.

  • Give time and space to recovery

    Trauma processing doesn't have a fixed speed. Rest, closeness, and gentle touch support the natural healing process.

    During flashbacks or sleepless nights

    The constant pressure of Hugsback helps the body relax and reduces the physical stress response.

    After intensive therapy or sessions

    Hugsback supports the body in discharging after emotional exertion, so that peace can return better.

    In daily moments of rest

    The cuddly toy provides a feeling of stability and security, which strengthens recovery step by step.

    How does Hugsback help with PTSD?

    Discover in which situations our weighted cuddly toys make the biggest difference — from moments of tension and reliving to phases of recovery and inner peace.

    Discover it yourself
     
     

    Scientific substantiation

    Proven relief from tension and hyperactivity

    Research results at a glance :

    72%

    of PTSD participants reported less hyperalertness and tension after the application of aggravating pressure (Journal of Traumatic Stress, 2020).

    61%

    experienced fewer nightmares and improved sleep quality with weighted toys (Military Medicine, 2021).

    54%

    reported reductions in anxiety peaks during flashbacks (Frontiers in Psychiatry, 2023).

    Results based on clinical research on deep pressure and autonomic nervous regulation in PTSD.

    Experiences : safety and recovery from PTSD

    • ★★★★★

      Finally sleep better

      Because of PTSD, I often had nightmares. With the stuffed animal, I fall asleep more peacefully and feel safer.

      — Kevin D.

    • ★★★★★

      Calming after therapy

      After EMDR sessions, the Hugsback helps me relax. It calms my body down faster.

      — Janneke V.

    • ★★★★★

      Less tension in my body

      During moments of panic, I use it as an anchor. It helps me come back to the present moment.

      — Sophie N.

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