Autism
sufferers can often experience high levels of anxiety caused by sensory
overload. While some would-be solutions focus on removing this sensory
stimulation and distraction (like the Study Nook) others aim at dealing with the stress caused.
The Squease Vest is an inflatable vest which, it's claimed, can help to alleviate anxiety through deep body pressure.
The Squease Vest is also available with a compatible hooded sweatshirt
The Squease Vest is an inflatable vest which, it's claimed, can help to alleviate anxiety through deep body pressure.
The vest, which will be launched to the public this week at the Autism
Show at London’s ExCel, is said to be the first such remedy which is
discreet enough that it can be worn all day and used as required. It
uses the tried and tested method of deep pressure to calm an
over-stimulated and overwhelmed wearer.
An attached hand pump allows the wearer to apply and regulate soothing pressure by pumping air to deliver a hug sensation
Looking a little like a bullet-proof vest, the device features zip and
velcro fastenings and has air pockets all the way around it. An attached
hand pump allows the wearer to apply and regulate soothing pressure by
pumping or releasing air to deliver a hug sensation. Soft edging and a
zip cover prevent irritation to the skin and elastic strips, which run
vertically along the flanks of the vest, allow movement.
Studies have previously found that deep pressure releases naturally
calming chemicals in the brain, along with endorphins which stimulate
happiness. As such, occupational therapists use a number of methods to
deliver this "big hug" sensation to people with autism, ADHD and sensory
processing disorders.
However, such solutions have traditionally been somewhat cumbersome.
While heavily weighted clothes, therapy blankets and swaddle-like wraps
are significantly more practical for modern life than Temple Grandin's Hug Machine,
they are often still not ideal for use out and about. Equally,
tight-fitting therapy tops deliver a constant "hug" rather than just
applying it when required.
The Squease Vest, which is also available with a compatible hooded
sweatshirt, is said to be light and discreet enough that it can be worn
all day. It is suggested that the best results come from inflating the
vest for periods of around 20 minutes at stressful times and that when
deflated, the vest sits loosely around the wearer's body.
"The vest is inflated by squeezing a hand pump, allowing the wearer to
regulate and apply soothing pressure in everyday situations that may
lead to anxiety, stress or sensory overload - whether that is at home,
at school, or on-the-move," say its makers.
The Squease Vest is available online for £245 (around US$380) and with
the Squease Jacket for £295 ($457). While the hooded top is currently
available in blue or grey color schemes, different styles will be on
offer later in the year.
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