Do stress balls help with anxiety

10 Best Stress Balls of 2022

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Best overall: Serenilite Hand Therapy Exercise Stress Ball Bundle
Best aesthetic: Ban.do Feel Better Destress Ball
Best water ball: MAGICLUB Giant Stress Ball
Best splat-style balls: Funky Egg Splat Ball Squishy Toys
Best koosh-style ball: Large Rainbow Stringy Ball
Best for kids (or small hands): Power Your Fun Arggh Mini Stress Balls
Best scented ball: Total Tranquility Aromatherapy Stress Ball
Best bulk option: Outer Space Stress Balls for Kids and Adults
Best baoding-style balls: Top Chi Solid Stainless Steel Baoding Balls with Carry Pouch
Best for travel: Secure Stress Balls on a String

Stress balls are therapeutic tools for helping people manage stress through the physical act of squeezing, rolling, or tossing a ball.

Made of various materials, from foam to rubber to metal, these balls can assist people in diffusing emotions like anger or anxiety and may even be able to curb panic attacks.

It’s important to note that research doesn’t suggest that stress balls can reduce stress and anxiety.

However, according to experts we spoke to, stress balls may be a beneficial tool for easing stress because they alleviate the physical experience of intense emotions. As Michelle Hunt, a mental health counselor and therapist at Empower Your Mind Therapy, explains, stress is not only an emotional and mental reaction, it is also a physical experience.

“As stress builds in our bodies, it needs a way to be released in order to not perpetuate our emotional and mental state,” Hunt says. “Stress balls give a point of release for stress. They help calm the nervous system and assist with processing.”

More often than not, she adds, the physical release created by stress balls can actually decrease physical sensations of stress, and other powerful emotions.

How does this work exactly? According to Vianey Reinhardt, a licensed professional counselor at Connections Wellness Group, the repetition of squeezing and releasing the stress ball creates the overall effect of stress or tension reduction.

“A user can hold the stress ball in their hand and squeeze the ball for up to 5 seconds and then release,” Reinhardt says. “This process can be repeated several times until the user experiences a reduction in tension.”

Another benefit to stress balls, both Hunt and Reinhardt note, is that these therapy tools are both discreet and socially accepted. People can use them without feeling self-conscious in public and even keep them handy on their work desks without worrying about other people seeing them.

Stress balls can be made from a number of materials like foam, fabric, pliable plastic or latex, rubber or even metal. When choosing a stress ball, it’s important to consider the durability of a product’s materials and read reviews to make sure the ball you’re considering is durable, especially if it’s the kind filled with water or foam. (These are more susceptible to pops or punctures, particularly if they’re used by children.)

Another consideration is size and strength. Stress balls come in various sizes and different levels of soft or hardness. Being able to test out a few balls can help you choose the right one for you.

What’s most important, Hunt says, is that you select something that speaks to you in some way, whether it’s the squishability of the ball itself or its shape or color.

“Stress balls come in different styles,” she says. “So, having an item that’s more tailored to your preferences can help with feeling a sense of control in how you express your distress.”

We looked at a number of different products to determine which ones to recommend and include.

We evaluated various products based on the following criteria:

value for the price point
positive customer reviews
aesthetic
size and strength of each product

We also considered different styles and materials of stress balls to provide a breadth of useful options.

Pricing guide

$ = under $10
$$ = $10–$15
$$$ = $15–20
$$$$ = over $20

Best overall

Serenilite Hand Therapy Exercise Stress Ball Bundle

Price: $$$$

This three-pack of stress balls features a soft, medium, and hard density ball depending on what level of grip strength you prefer in the moment. Along with variety, these balls get top marks because they are covered in nonstick fabric and feature a durable gel core, meaning that they’ll hold up long term.

With more than 2,500 5-star reviews, these stress balls are the most reviewed — and loved — option on Amazon.

Shop now at Amazon

Best aesthetic

Ban.do Feel Better Destress Ball

Price: $

For a decidedly chic stress ball option, look no further than Ban.do’s collection, which features various Instagrammable shapes to choose from, including a rainbow, a croissant, a self-help book, a strawberry, and a grapefruit.

Made from slow rising polyurethane foam, these cute squeezables have a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from customers, who rave about their bright colors and durability.

Shop now at Ban.do

Best water ball

MAGICLUB Giant Stress Ball

Price: $$$

This oversized stress ball is made from thick thermoplastic rubber and filled with small beads suspended in gel, making it a fun, squishable option.

Available in three colors — red, black, and purple — it’s a good option for adults and kids alike since it’s made from nontoxic materials, is BPA-free, and can be easily washed if needed.

Shop now at Amazon

Best splat-style balls

Funky Egg Splat Ball Squishy Toys

Price: $$$

If you’re looking for a ball to toss against a wall or desk surface, this egg-shaped option wins for splat factor. Made of thermoplastic rubber, these splat balls come in a pack of four and will stick to most surfaces, creating another dimension that may help subside feelings of stress as you squish and throw them.

While the reviews for these balls are mostly positive, some reviewers mention that the balls leaked or broke, especially when used by kids.

Shop now at Amazon

Best koosh-style ball

Large Rainbow Stringy Ball

Price: $$

For those looking for a koosh-style ball, this rainbow option is a fun way to destress. Great for squishing, tossing, or looping around your finger to bounce, it’s made from hypoallergenic soft silica gel and complies with children’s product safety rules, making it a good choice for kids too.

Reviewers note that this style ball seemed to ease their stress and can also be used as a fidget toy, as a tool for sensory therapy, and to help ease obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)-related behaviors like skin picking.

Shop now at Amazon

Best for kids (or small hands)

Power Your Fun Arggh Mini Stress Balls

Price: $$

This three-pack of small stress balls are bright and colorful and offer soft, medium, and hard resistances. While there are a lot of options for kids, these stand out because they change colors when squished (from yellow to orange, blue to green, and pink to purple), which adds another dimension to this calming toy.

While some reviewers complain about these balls breaking, many also note that they received replacement products through the company free of charge.

Shop now at Amazon

Best scented ball

Total Tranquility Aromatherapy Stress Ball

Price: $

For a full sensory experience, this handmade rose blossom- and lavender-scented stress ball is infused with essential oils. Packaged in its own carrying tin, it’s easy to take on the go or it can stand in for a candle on your desk or beside your bathtub.

Reviewers love the packaging and the scent of this stress ball, though some note that the texture is more putty-like than expected.

Shop now at Etsy

Best bulk option

Outer Space Stress Balls for Kids and Adults

Price: $

If you’re buying stress balls for your family or as gifts, this pack of 12 galaxy-themed balls is a good option. Their two-and-a-half inch size makes them small enough for kids to enjoy and they’re made from nontoxic foam, meaning they can’t leak or explode.

However, some reviewers say that these stress balls can be a little too tempting for pets — it’s important to keep these away from furry friends.

Shop now at Amazon

Best baoding-style balls

Top Chi Solid Stainless Steel Baoding Balls with Carry Pouch

Price: $$$$

If you’re looking for a stress ball without the squish, these Chinese baoding balls are a great option, especially if you plan to use them for helping with concentration or during meditation. At one and a half inches in size and one pound in weight, they’re smaller than traditional baoding balls, making them usable for most people.

The overwhelmingly positive reviews mention that these balls are great for wrist and hand strengthening as well as their stress relief.

Shop now at Amazon

Best for travel

Secure Stress Balls on a String

Price: $$$

This three-pack of stress balls is great for travel since each ball comes with its own leash that can be attached to a backpack or purse strap, and can be wrapped around your wrist while in use.

Each pack comes with a soft, medium, and firm grip ball, giving you a variety of strengths to work with, and each ball is made with hypoallergenic thermoplastic rubber that’s both safe and easy to clean.

Shop now at Amazon

Is there research on stress balls?

Clinical studies haven’t found evidence to support the idea that stress balls reduce stress and anxiety.

However, many people find these products help them focus, calm, or distract themselves, as part of a useful tool in their overall stress management.

Do stress balls work for anxiety?

While Hunt says that stress balls can be great tools to use in the moment to help ease the physical discomfort of anxiety, they won’t solve the cause of that stress.

“It is important to explore the triggers for stress and utilize different coping skills in order to decrease the intensity of symptoms over time,” she explains. “Stress balls alone are not effective in processing where the stress is coming from and understanding the root of the stress response. ”

Do stress balls work for anger?

According to Reinhardt, stress balls can help manage symptoms of frustration, stress, or anger. However, she adds that it’s important to monitor the benefits of using a stress ball in reducing these emotions.

“If it appears that the act of using a stress ball provides minimal or no benefit at all, it would be appropriate to seek additional coping mechanisms or seek the help of a mental health professional who can provide guidance and tools for managing challenging emotions,” she says.

Do stress balls help with panic attacks?

While clinical studies haven’t found evidence to support the use of stress balls to prevent panic attacks, Reinhardt says that they can be excellent tools for diverting the brain when someone feels a panic attack coming on.

“Distracting the brain from focusing on the stimulus for that fear and refocusing on a specific task, such as squeezing a stress ball, allows for an interruption of the fear response and gives the brain a chance to settle into a less escalated state,” she says.

For many people, stress balls can be a useful tool for easing uncomfortable emotions and helping them work through the physical sensations of anxiety, anger, frustration, and tension. The variety of options out there means most people can find a stress ball that will work well for them, whether they’re looking for a particular size or prefer a specific color or material.

That being said, there is no real clinical evidence that stress balls have a direct effect on stress and anxiety.

While stress balls can help alleviate emotions in the moment, it may be helpful to speak with a mental health professional to understand the root cause of stress (or other difficult emotions), especially if these feelings are interfering with your daily life.

Natasha Burton is a freelance writer and editor who has written for Cosmopolitan, Women’s Health, Livestrong, Woman’s Day, and many other lifestyle publications. She’s the author of What’s My Type?: 100+ Quizzes to Help You Find Yourself ― and Your Match!, 101 Quizzes for Couples, 101 Quizzes for BFFs, 101 Quizzes for Brides and Grooms, and the co-author of “The Little Black Book of Big Red Flags. ” When she’s not writing, she’s fully immersed in #momlife with her toddler and preschooler.

Do stress balls really work?

Stress can take a physical toll on your body.

You've probably seen one of those little round stress balls. You might have received it for free with a company's brand splashed on the side or picked one up during a rough week at work. Stress balls are popular, but do they actually help reduce tension?

The general consensus is that these toys actually do help in stressful moments. In fact, there are numerous reasons that one of these little balls should be a necessary accessory on your desk.

Stress and the body
As a human being, you've likely experienced stress at one point or another. From work to school to relationships, there's no shortage of challenges that can cause conflict in daily life. But just because it's normal doesn't mean that this anxiety is harmless. Stress takes a toll not only on your emotional and mental health, but also on your physical well-being.

According to Mayo Clinic, stress can physically cause problems such as headaches, an upset stomach, muscle tension, sleep problems and fatigue. If left unchecked, it can also contribute to more serious health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity.

So how can you avoid these negative health complications that come from periods of high anxiety? Turns out, a stress ball can help, according to Dr. David Posen, a stress expert and the author of "Is Work Killing You?: A Doctor's Prescription for Treating Workplace Stress."

"You've got all this stress energy – your body is in a state of high alert, but there's nowhere for it to go," Posen told The Huffington Post. "When you're stressed, your body tightens up – so a physical release helps to let go of some of that energy… The benefit of squeezing is that it releases some kind of energy – it also induces you to relax."

Though squeezing a stress ball is not a long term solution for stress, it can help your body to release tension in the moment. The motion acts as a reminder to relax the muscles that are clenched when you're anxious, which can help avoid complications like headaches or pain that accompany long periods of tensing.

Stress from a variety of sources can take a toll on your mental, physical and emotional well-being.

The other benefits of stress balls
While the aptly-named stress ball can help release anxiety, that's not the only benefit offered by these simple toys. For example, playing with a stress ball can help to manage and heal scar tissue in your hands. It can also strengthen your hands if you're rehabilitating from a recent surgery.

Stress balls additionally offer the potential to increase concentration. According to a study of a group of sixth-graders by published in the Journal of At-Risk Issues, the students who used a stress ball in class were less distracted.

While you can find stress balls in most any size, shape or color, why settle for any less than a product that's specifically designed with your comfort in mind?The IMAK® ERGO Stress Ball's ergoBeads provide a gentle massage while your fingers are strengthened and stretched, providing stress relief and other benefits in the process.

Experts' Top 10 Stress Balls

Best Stress Balls at a Glance

Best: Serenilite Hand Therapy Stress Ball Set
Best Aesthetics: Ball Feel Better
B Water Ball: MAGICLUB Giant Stress Ball
Top Splat Style Balls: Funky Egg Splat Ball Squishy Toys
Best Kush Style Ball: Big Rainbow Fiber Ball
Best for Kids (or Small Hands): Power Your Fun Arggh Mini Stress Balls
Best Scent Ball: Total Tranquility Aromatherapy Antistress Ball
Best Bulk Option: Space Stress Balls for Kids and Adults
Best Baoding Style Balls: Top Chi Solid Stainless Steel Baoding Balls with Carry Bag
Best for traveling: Attach stress balls to a string

What are stress balls?

Stress balls are therapeutic tools to help people cope with stress through the physical act of squeezing, rolling or tossing a ball.

Made from materials ranging from foam to rubber to metal, these balls can help people dissipate emotions such as anger or anxiety, and can even curb panic attacks.

Benefits of Stress Balls

It is important to note that studies do not suggest that stress balls can reduce stress and anxiety.

However, according to the experts we spoke with, stress balls can be a useful tool for relieving stress, as they make it easier to experience intense emotions physically. As Michelle Hunt, mental health consultant and therapist at Empower Your Mind Therapy, explains, stress is not only an emotional and mental response, but also a physical experience.

“As stress builds up in our body, it needs a way to get rid of it so it doesn't perpetuate our emotional and mental state,” says Hunt. “Stress balls provide an opportunity to relieve stress. They help calm the nervous system and aid in processing.”

More often than not, she adds, the physical relaxation created by stress balls can actually reduce the physical sensations of stress and other intense emotions.

How does it work? According to Viani Reinhardt, a licensed professional consultant from the Connections Wellness Group, the repetition of squeezing and releasing a stress ball creates the overall effect of reducing stress or tension.

“The user can hold the ball in their hand and squeeze it for up to 5 seconds and then release it,” says Reinhardt. “This process can be repeated several times until the user feels a reduction in voltage.”

Hunt and Reinhardt point out another benefit of stress balls, which is that these therapeutic tools are unobtrusive and socially acceptable. People can use them without embarrassment in public and even keep them handy on their desktops without worrying about other people seeing them.

Things to look out for

Stress balls can be made from a variety of materials such as foam, fabric, flexible plastic or latex, rubber or even metal. When choosing a stress ball, it's important to consider the durability of the product's materials and read reviews to make sure the ball you're considering is durable, especially if filled with water or foam. (They are more susceptible to pops or punctures, especially if used by children.)

Another factor is size and power. Stress balls come in different sizes and varying degrees of softness or firmness. Being able to test multiple balls will help you choose the one that's right for you.

The most important thing, says Hunt, is that you choose something that speaks to you in some way, whether it's the softness of the ball itself, its shape or color.

“Stress balls come in many styles,” she says. "So, having an item that is more in line with your preferences can help you feel in control of how you express your grief."

How we chose

We looked at a number of different products to determine which ones to recommend and include.

We evaluated various products according to the following criteria:

value for the price category
positive customer feedback
aesthetic
The size and strength of each product

We also considered different styles and materials of stress balls to provide a wide range of selection of useful options.

Pricing Guide

$ = less than $10
$$ = $10-$15
$$$ = $15-20
$$$$ = over $20

Drink-Drink Choice for Best Stress Balls 9003

Best Overall

Serenilite Hand Therapy Stress Ball Set

Cost: $ $ $ $

This set of three stress balls includes balls of soft, medium and hard density depending on whether what level of grip strength do you prefer at the moment. Along with the variety, these balls get top marks because they are coated with non-stick fabric and have a strong gel core, which means they will last a long time.

With over 2,500 5-star reviews, these stress balls are the most viewed and loved option on Amazon.

Best Aesthetics

Ban.do Feel Better Stress Ball

Price: $

Instagram including rainbow, croissant, self help book, strawberry and grapefruit.

Made from slow rising polyurethane foam, these cute squeezable toys have received 4.5 out of 5 stars from customers who love their vibrant colors and durability.

Best Water Ball

MAGICLUB Giant Stress Ball

Price: $ $ $

This oversized stress ball is made from thick thermoplastic rubber and is filled with little balls that are weighted in gel and flexible option.

Available in three colors - red, black and purple - it's a good option for adults and kids alike because it's made from non-toxic materials, BPA free and easy to wash when needed.

Best Splat Style Balls

Funky Egg Splat Ball Squishy Toys

Price: $ $ $

If you're looking for a ball to throw against a wall or table top, this egg-shaped option wins by odds hit. Made from thermoplastic rubber, these splat balls come in a pack of four and stick to most surfaces, creating a new dimension that can help reduce feelings of stress when you squish and toss them.

While reviews of these balls have been mostly positive, some reviewers have noted that the balls leaked or broke, especially when used by children.

Best Kush Ball

Big Rainbow Fiber Ball

Price: $$

For those looking for a koosh style ball, this rainbow variant is a fun way to relieve stress. Perfect for squishing, tossing or wrapping around your finger to bounce, it's made from hypoallergenic soft silica gel and complies with baby product safety regulations, making it a good choice for kids too.

Reviewers note that this stylish ball appears to have eased their stress and can also be used as an anxiety toy, as a tool for sensory therapy, and to alleviate obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) behaviors such as like picking skin.

Best for kids (or small hands)

Power Your Fun Arggh Mini Stress Balls

Cost: $$

This set of three small bright and colorful stress balls offers soft, medium and hard resistance. While there are many options for kids, they stand out because they change color when squeezed (yellow to orange, blue to green, and pink to purple), which adds another dimension to this soothing toy.

While some reviewers complain that these balls break, many also note that they received replacement products through the company for free.

Best Scent Ball

Total Tranquility Aromatherapy Antistress Ball

Price: $

For a complete sensory experience, this rose and lavender scented handmade stress ball is infused with essential oils. Packaged in its own tin, it's easy to take on the go, or it can replace a candle on your desk or next to the bathroom.

Reviewers love the packaging and smell of this stress ball, though some note that the texture is more like putty than expected.

Best Wholesale

Space Stress Balls for Kids and Adults

Price: $

If you are buying stress balls for your family or as a gift, this set of 12 galaxy themed balls is a good one option. Their two-and-a-half-inch size makes them small enough for kids, and they're made from non-toxic foam, which means they can't leak or explode.

However, some reviewers say these stress balls can be too tempting for pets - it's important to keep them away from furry friends.

Best Baoding Style Balls

Top Chi Hard Stainless Steel Baoding Balls with Carry Bag

Cost: $$$$

a great option, especially if you plan to use them to aid concentration or while meditating. Measuring one and a half inches and weighing one pound, they are smaller than traditional baoding balls, making them usable by most people.

The overwhelmingly positive reviews mention that these balls are great for strengthening the wrists and hands, as well as relieving stress.

Travel Best

Attach Stress Balls to a String

Price: $ $ $

This set of 3 stress balls is great for travel as each ball comes with its own leash that can be attached to a backpack or bag belt and wrapped around the wrist during use.

Each pack comes with a soft, medium and hard grip ball to give you a choice of different strengths, and each ball is made from hypoallergenic TPR that is both safe and easy to clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there any research on stress balls?

Clinical studies have found no evidence to support the idea that stress balls reduce stress and anxiety.

However, many people find that these foods help them focus, calm down or distract themselves as part of a useful tool in their overall stress management.

Do stress balls work for anxiety?

While Hunt says stress balls can be great tools to use right now to ease the physical discomfort of anxiety, they won't address the cause of that stress.

"It's important to learn about stress triggers and use different coping skills to reduce the intensity of symptoms over time," she explains. "On their own, stress balls are ineffective in understanding where stress comes from and understanding the cause of the stress response. "

Do stress balls work on anger?

According to Reinhardt, stress balls can help manage symptoms of frustration, stress, or anger. However, she adds that it's important to track the benefits of using a stress ball in reducing those emotions.

“If it turns out that using a stress ball is of little or no benefit, it would be appropriate to look for additional coping mechanisms or seek help from a mental health professional who can provide guidance and tools to manage difficult emotions.” ". she said.

Do stress balls help with panic attacks?

While clinical studies have found no evidence to support the use of stress balls to prevent panic attacks, Reinhardt says they can be great distraction tools when someone senses a panic attack coming.

“Distracting the brain from focusing on the stimulus for that fear and refocusing on a specific task, such as squeezing a stressful ball, interrupts the fear response and allows the brain to settle into a less stressful state,” she says.

Conclusion

For many people, stress balls can be a useful tool for reducing unpleasant emotions and helping them overcome physical feelings of anxiety, anger, frustration and tension. The variety of options available means most people can find a stress ball to suit them, whether they're looking for a specific size or prefer a specific color or material.

However, there is no real clinical evidence that stress balls have a direct effect on stress and anxiety.

While stress balls can help ease emotions in the moment, it can be helpful to talk to a mental health professional to understand the root cause of your stress (or other difficult emotions), especially if these feelings are interfering with your daily life.

24 ways to relax in 5 minutes

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- About stress and depression - 24 ways to relax in 5 minutes

You have 364 emails requiring an immediate response, there is a meeting in five minutes, and you are not ready for it, your head is spinning from an overabundance of information ... Wait, it's time to take a break!

Food and drink

Have a cup of green tea. Green tea is a source of L-theanine, a natural antidepressant. Well helps to cope with the approaching feeling of anger and overexcitation.
Have a chocolate snack. Just a little sweet will help you calm down. Dark chocolate regulates the level of cortisol, the stress hormone, and normalizes metabolism.
Eat some honey. A good alternative to chocolate. Honey is good at fighting depression and anxiety.
Chew some gum. Gum is a surprisingly quick and easy way to beat stress. Just a few minutes of chewing can reduce anxiety and lower cortisol levels in the body.
Eat something crunchy. If sweet isn't your thing, crunch on something that isn't too salty, ideally nuts or vegetables.

Immerse yourself in your inner world

Meditation. Do not look for mountains outside the window. All you need is a calm and quiet place. Find a place like this, sit back, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing.
Rest your head on a bolster or pillow. No one denies the benefits of proper sleep, but you can't sleep in the office. However, if you have something to rest your head on (a pillow, a bolster, even your folded arms), lie down for a few minutes and pretend it's a sponge sucking up all your problems.
Focus on your breathing. Deep slow breaths lower blood pressure and heart rate. Perhaps you know special breathing exercises, do not forget about them.
Try progressive relaxation. If you are anxious, just clench your hands into fists and relax. Repeat as needed. Muscle contraction has a beneficial effect on both the physical and mental state. Plus, it's a great way to fall asleep quickly.
Count up to 10 and backwards. It's a great way to unwind when you can't take your eyes off work for too long.
Use your imagination to the fullest. Imagine a funny or pleasant picture for just a few minutes. This little mind game will instantly boost your mood.
Close your eyes. Block yourself from the hustle and bustle by simply lowering your eyelids for five minutes, and not be distracted by anything.

Massage

Hand massage. Hands are generally a focus of tension, especially for keyboard typists. Take a break for a five-minute hand massage. This will help slow down the overly intense heartbeat.
Bring a small ball with you and roll it around with your feet. This way you will get an impromptu relaxing foot massage.
Have an anti-stress ball handy. Use it the next time you feel like strangling a colleague, best friend, or spouse. The anti-stress ball is an easy and non-violent way to relieve stress.
Drop cold water on your wrists and behind your ears. These areas contain large veins. If you cool them, you can calm the whole body.

Change of scenery

Go out into the sun. Sunlight is always uplifting. It is also an effective way to treat people from stress.
Look out the window. No, don't spy on your neighbors. Simply contemplating your surroundings is much more relaxing than a TV screen.
Take yourself a quick walk. When you find it difficult to focus on something, go for a walk at a brisk pace. This is doubly useful: you can be alone with yourself and get some physical stress.

Creativity and entertainment

Pour out all your feelings on paper.
Learn more