Anxiety is common in the United States. According to the CDC, about 1 in 5 adults has been told by a health care professional that they have an anxiety disorder, and about 1 in 5 young people report symptoms of anxiety. In recent years, many people have started using fidget toys for anxiety to help them relieve stress. While anxiety stress toys won’t cure your condition, they could help you refocus your mind, burn off extra energy and stay in the present moment.

What Are Anxiety Fidget Toys?

Anxiety fidget toys are small objects that fit in one hand and feature different functions, textures and uses. They can help you regulate your mind and calm your nerves when feeling anxious or stressed. Common fidget toys include stress balls, fidget spinners and chewable pendants.

Benefits of Fidget Toys

Using fidget toys to manage stress and anxiety has several benefits. To start, when individuals engage with fidget toys, they find an outlet to redirect restless energy. Releasing that energy allows these individuals to focus on tasks and remain present. Playing with anxiety stress toys may also help them cope with stress and adjust to new environments. Likewise, fidget toys may improve concentration and enhance productivity, although these toys have some limitations.

What Fidget Toys Don’t Do

While fidget toys for anxiety may provide some stress relief, they don’t cure anxiety or target the underlying cause behind these symptoms. They also don’t work the same way for everyone. For example, research on fidget spinners in the classroom found they may reduce children’s attention and performance rather than improve it. Fidget toys for anxiety have their uses, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all approach.

Types of Fidget Toys

Shopping for fidget toys can be an enjoyable experience because it allows individuals to find the toys that slow their minds and provide focus and confidence. The toys come in several shapes, sizes and designs. The pricing makes these resources affordable enough for individuals to try several types to find the match for their symptoms.

Here’s a look at the best fidget toys for anxiety.

Fidget Spinners

Fidget spinners have three prongs that fit in the hand and spin. These toys give people something to do with their hands, making them a good fit for individuals who struggle to concentrate or sit still. However, they can be distracting in professional settings, so it’s best to use them at home or in private.

Stress Balls

Stress balls are soft, squishy toys that may help individuals release excess energy and calm the nervous system. Squeezing and releasing a stress ball may also help ease muscle tension. They can also give your hands something to do in place of less healthy habits, such as smoking.

Putty

Putty is a soft, clay-like material that holds its shape well. Like fidget spinners, putty is a good fit for people who need to keep their hands occupied. Putty is sticky and doesn’t dry out, so avoid placing it on wet or dirty surfaces.

Chewable Pendants

Chewable pendants are pieces of jewelry that people can chew on safely. They can be a helpful option for individuals who release stress through chewing fingernails, pencils, sleeves or hair. It’s critical to ensure that anxiety toys are safe to put in your mouth, so look for chewable pendants that are BPA- and latex-free.

Mindful Breathing Straws

Mindful breathing straws are convenient stress toys for adults that can help some people slow their breathing. They may be useful for people whose breathing speeds up when they feel anxious. To use one, place the straw in your mouth, then inhale through your nose. Afterward, exhale slowly through your mouth, breathing out through the straw.

When to Seek Professional Help

If using fidget toys for anxiety doesn’t relieve your symptoms, you may need professional help. Look out for these signs that your anxiety is starting to take over your life:

If you’re noticing these signs, a primary care doctor or mental health provider is a good place to start. Support from the people close to you matters, too. Learn more about the family’s role in supporting anxiety. If you’re having thoughts of harming yourself, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Anxiety and Substance Use

Many people with anxiety turn to drugs or alcohol to cope. When drinking or drug use is part of the picture, Sunlight Recovery can help. We offer dual-diagnosis care that treats substance use disorder alongside co-occurring anxiety, trauma and other mental health conditions. We personalize our programs to meet your specific needs and help you get the most out of your stay.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fidget toys for anxiety?

Popular fidget toys for anxiety include stress balls, fidget spinners and mindful breathing straws. The right toy varies according to each person’s individual needs.

Do fidget toys cure anxiety?

While fidget toys don’t cure anxiety, they may provide some temporary relief from symptoms. However, they’re not a replacement for a professional treatment plan, such as cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety.

How much do fidget toys cost?

The cost may vary according to the brand and type of toy that you’re buying. Most fidget toys are affordable and easy to order online.

Seek Help for Anxiety and Substance Use Today

Anxiety can result in feelings of dread, stress and overstimulation. If fidget toys aren’t enough and you’ve found yourself relying on alcohol or drugs to cope, it’s time to reach out for help and guidance. Call our 24/7 admissions line at (855) 625-6684 or contact us to speak with the compassionate team at Sunlight Recovery. Every call is confidential, with no obligation.