Why It’s OK to Have a Stuffed Animal as an Adult

Although we often believe that stuffed animals should be reserved for children, most adults are fond of their stuffed friends. According to a 2018 study, 43% of adults own a special stuffed animal. 84% of men and 77% of women both admit to having at least one. The time-honored Teddy Bear is the most beloved stuffed animal for adults. What are the benefits these stuffed animals can offer their adult owners?

1. STUFFED ANIMALS BRING A SENSE OF SECURITY

It is not surprising that adult use loveys and stuffed animals in the same way as children. They provide security during transitions. These objects are called “comfort objects” or “transitional items,” and can provide a sense of security as we move from one stage in our lives to the next, from one job to another, or from one house to another. Margaret Van Ackeren is a licensed therapist. She says that “in most instances, adults sleep next to childhood stuffed animals because they bring them a sense security and decrease negative feelings like loneliness and anxiety.” This sense of security can be crucial when things are changing and help us navigate change better.

2. STUFFFED ANIMALS EASE LONELINESS

Adults can feel isolated and lonely in the modern world, even when they are surrounded by others. There is evidence to suggest that we are becoming more isolated as the internet makes us more connected. We are social creatures and can’t live without others. Although stuffed animals can’t replace the social roles played by humans, they can ease loneliness and help us deal with our interconnected, lonely world.

3. STUFFED ANIMALS INCREASE MENTAL HEALTH

Although live animals are becoming more popular as therapeutic tools, did you know that stuffed animals could also be helpful in many of the same ways? One study found that stuffed animals were able to help patients with disordered attachment styles create secure attachments and rebuild damaged attachment bonds. People can live happier, richer lives by being able to form secure emotional attachments. Aniko Dunn says that stuffed animals are “… highly recommended for psychotherapy and people with PTSD, bipolar disorder, and other mental disorders.” This is an amazing gift!

4. STUFFFED ANIMALS CAN RELAX US.

Stuffed animals can be a way to connect to a deceased loved one. This helps us to navigate the grief process and ease the loss. Memory Bears are a stuffed bear that is embroidered with the clothing of a deceased friend or relative. This will help you to feel more connected to those memories. A stuffed animal can be used as a comforting and calming companion in your grief.

5. STUFFED ANIMALS HELP US HEAL from TRAUMA

Some types of therapy use stuffed animals! Some types of therapy use stuffed animals. This can improve self-esteem and happiness in trauma victims, as well as decrease self-loathing. Rose M. Barlow is Professor of Psychology at Boise State University. She says that animals, whether live or stuffed in a cage, can be used to aid therapy for children and adults. This includes allowing them to express their emotions and providing unconditional support and grounding.

6. STUFFED ANIMALS REMIND US OF CHILDHOOD

Nostalgia can be described as a psychological state of “pleasant recalling.” Although memories of the past can sometimes be distressing, people who feel nostalgic are more happy and have higher self-esteem. It can be a good thing to have pleasant memories of the past. They can help us feel connected to our loved ones and provide continuity in a chaotic life. Even existential fears like fear of death can be eased by nostalgia. According to Christine Batcho, Professor in Psychology at LeMoyne College and a psychologist, nostalgia can help us cope with times of change. It’s comforting to feel a nostalgia for the past, she says “… because it reminds us that, although we don’t know what the future will bring, we do know who we are and what we have been. They may remind us of our parents or of time spent snuggling with our siblings. These feelings can be relived with stuffed animals when we most need them.

7. STUFFFED ANIMALS REDUCE THE STRESS

Numerous studies have shown that interaction with animals can reduce stress. Petting a pet companion animal like a cat or dog can result in a significant reduction of stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol can lead to a variety of physiological problems including weight gain and increased risk of developing coronary disease. Did you know that touching soft stuffed animals can also have similar cortisol-reducing effects? Stuffed animals can help relieve stress and make us happier and more healthy. There are even stuffed animals for anxiety and stress! Aroma therapeutic and weighted stuffed animal are both available to relieve stress. They will provide double the comfort of your stuffed friends.

We’ve created a selection of stuffed animals for adults to ensure that everyone can find the right stuffed animal for them.