Comfort Objects

[WinterinOz]

A few months back I came across a few articles about comfort objects in which people who suffer from a mental or physical illness use in order to feel safer, happier, better, etc. The object could be anything from a stuffed animal to a piece of clothing. I happen to struggle with severe anxiety and panic attacks and other than medication, I'm really trying to find ways in coping with the attacks. This may be a silly question but do any of you use or have a comfort object? Does having one help you?

[Forgetfulnana]

I like to buy new pyjamas or bedding seeing as I’m in them more than clothes these days x

[Agora1]

WinterinOz, Over the years, I have tried some comforting objects. I've carried a

"rubbing stone" which allowed repetition to refocus off my anxious thoughts.

I've carried a stress card which monitored my anxiety level. A mood ring lol as well

as bracelets made of calming stones.

What worked the best is just "plain old breathing". Breathing properly can be a

quick fix to stress. Who knew?? Something so simple could be effective. Think back

in how many times you've heard doctors and nurses tell you to just relax and breathe.

They were right.

Today, I use my breathing technique as well as listening to meditation. That has proven

to work for me best. Good Luck in finding what works for you. xx

[Sprinkle1]

I learnt in therapy decades ago, a stuffed animal, or a doll can be a great soother. I have had one ever since. I call my stuffed cat doll Lucy, and a stuffed orange cat a friend gave me after my beloved "Mouse" died at age 17, and it's name is Mouse. I also learnt a small blanket can be comforting, so find what works for you and stick with it, I am 77.....Sending peace, love & hugs.....Sprinkle 1......

[Pugglesworth]

I hug pillows at night when I'm sleeping or during the day while napping.

It does help me sleep.

[Hidden]

Try a weighted blanket. You can find them any place. It feels like someone hugging you ❤️

[melbrown]

I have 2 comfort things... a tiny plush rabbit, small enough to fit in a hand & most of my purses. I also have a plush octopus... that I love... found it a while shopping after a tough day & it made me smile. I learned touch , comfort items really help with PTSD... brings you to the present & of course soothing.

[hippieebbbz09]

I have my slippers, weighted blanket & purple elephant stuffed toy , from my bday (love stuffed toys —even as an adult)..

These items are good to have, yet I’m not fully dependent on them , to make me all grounded and anxious-free. Even though , I’m anxious , I want to learn all that I have to, to manage anxiety better, without items.

They ARE helpful when needed. I do travel with , at least , two out of three items. They feel familiar and safe ,to me .

[Hidden]

I have a stuffed fox that gives me comfort sometimes. I have severe anxiety, PTSD, depression and am also neurodivergent. When my anxiety kicks in I'm more likely than not to start rocking, and when that happens I usually grab the fox and hold it for a bit until the anxiety subsides. I also do a lot of breathing exercises, most often a meditative count to ten or a 4-7-8 method (breathe in for 4, hold for 7, breathe out for 8). Ultimately, nothing really helps and I suffer through episodes until they end.

[Brennarae]

Hi yes I have a comfort stuffed elephant and her name is Gracie. I am an introvert and don't have many friends. Also I have no family and I just recently had to put my kitty to sleep who was my best friend. I have suffered from depression my whole life and if it weren't for that silly stuffed animal I would not be here. So u can find comfort in the small things and I found in my journey with depression if u can hold onto hope even in the darkest times the sun eventually has to shine. 🌝