Do squishies help with stress or anxiety? Some people find the squeeze-and-release motion pleasant or calming in the moment. However, responses vary, research on retail squishy toys is limited, and a squishy should not be described as a treatment for anxiety.
Why squeezing may feel helpful in the moment
A soft object gives the hands something simple and repetitive to do. Depending on the person and the toy, that may provide:
- Tactile feedback: the material compresses and pushes back against the hand.
- A brief attention cue: noticing texture, pressure and rebound can shift attention to a physical sensation for a moment.
- A repeatable routine: squeeze, release and watch the shape return.
These are possible user experiences, not guaranteed health benefits.
What does the research actually show?
Direct evidence for silicone squishy toys is scarce. Some studies have tested ordinary stress balls during specific medical procedures, and the results are mixed.
- A 2024 randomized trial during coronary angiography reported lower post-procedure anxiety scores in the stress-ball group.
- A 2018 randomized clinical trial during skin-cancer excision found no significant anxiety difference between stress-ball, hand-holding and usual-care groups.
Those studies involved adults in controlled medical settings and tested stress balls—not LoveSquishy products. They do not establish that a retail squishy treats everyday stress, anxiety disorders or any medical condition.
Stress relief is not the same as anxiety treatment
“Stress relief” often means a person enjoys a short break or soothing sensation. Anxiety can be persistent, intense or disruptive and may require support from a qualified healthcare professional. A squishy can be a personal comfort object, but it should not replace professional care.
How to try a squishy as a sensory object
- Choose a comfortable size and texture.
- Squeeze gently rather than forcing the material.
- Notice whether a slow-rise or quick-rebound design feels better to you.
- Stop if the motion causes pain, irritation or more distraction.
- Follow the care and intended-use information for the specific product.
Which squishy features feel most satisfying?
Rebound speed, firmness, surface texture and size can change the experience more than the character or color alone. Our squishy selection guide compares those features, while why squishies feel satisfying explains the non-medical appeal in more detail.
You can also browse the silicone squishy collection and check each product page for its own material, care and use information.
