Fidget Spinner for Stress Relief: Does It Really Work?

What Are Fidget Spinners?

Fidget spinners have taken the world by storm in recent years. These three-sided propeller-like gadgets come in a variety of colors and designs and are often referred to as fidget toys or finger spinners. They are weighted and designed to be spun between your thumb and another finger, providing a sensory experience that many claim helps with stress and other mental health issues.

Who Can Benefit from Fidget Spinners?

Fidget spinners are not limited to a specific age group. Adults might carry them for entertainment during commutes, finding them soothing. They can be particularly useful for individuals with ADHD, those on the autism spectrum, or people dealing with PTSD. These groups often report experiencing stress relief and improved focus when using a fidget spinner.

Some Uses for a Stress Spinner

Despite limited peer-reviewed studies, stress spinners are claimed to have various benefits. They can serve as distractions from rumination about stressful topics, aid children with autism or ADHD in focusing during classes, and potentially induce a meditative state that helps in dealing with stress. Moreover, for individuals with OCD, they might offer an alternative to compulsive rituals.

The Fidget Spinner Normalizes Certain Activities

The popularity of fidget spinners has made it more acceptable for children with special needs to engage in fidgeting behaviors. This normalization can lead to a greater sense of acceptance and belonging among these children, reducing the stigma associated with such behaviors.

The Future of the Fidget Spinner

It's uncertain whether fidget spinners will remain popular in the long term. Without more scientific research on their effects and how the brain responds, it's difficult to determine their long-term efficacy for stress relief. However, they can be used in combination with other stress management strategies.

Conclusion

Fidget spinners have gained attention as a potential tool for stress relief, but their effectiveness remains a subject of debate. While some people swear by them, more research is needed to fully understand their benefits. If you're dealing with stress, it might be worth giving a fidget spinner a try, but also consider exploring other proven stress management techniques or seeking the guidance of a mental health professional.