Life

The 24 Most Helpful Things You Can Buy When You’re Feeling Anxious

I'm a very organized person. This is both a good and bad thing. On one hand, I'm usually ready for anything that comes my way. On the other, when life throws me a curveball and I'm not prepared, I freak. That's where deeply calming products for anxiety come in.

When plans get canceled right as I'm walking out the door, or when I can't fall asleep before a big day, I know I can rely on my acupressure mat and my favorite aromatherapy candles. Granted, that's just the commonplace worrying that most people experience from time to time. It's not the same thing as an anxiety disorder, and if you think you experience signs of anxiety more often than you should, it's a good idea to seek the help of a professional.

However, if the news, politics, or your in-laws stress you out every once in a while, never fear: the internet has a ton of genius things for people who are anxious AF. These stress-relieving gadgets are also all available on Amazon, so you don't even need to worry about the uncertainty of a department store line. Just cuddle up underneath your favorite blanket, make a cup of tea, and wait for that magical brown box to appear on your doorstep.

by Maria Cassano

1. This Essential Oil Aromatherapy Spray That Melts Your Tensions Away

Instant Stress Relief Premium Aromatherapy Mist, $15, Amazon

"I bought this for my college son who has been experiencing stress and anxiety for various reasons," says one reviewer about this Instant Stress Relief premium aromatherapy mist. "He used it a few days after receiving it and said that it really worked to calm him down." It uses safe, natural ingredients (like patchouli and sage essential oils) to melt your tensions away. People call the scent "relaxing but not overpowering," and it's great for spraying around your office, on your pillow at night, or on your clothes. It's also free of alcohol, parabens, and artificial scents.

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2. This Fidget Pen That's A Bit More Professional Than The Spinner

Think Ink Fidget Pen, $10, Amazon

So you'd love to bring a fidget spinner to work, but you're worried it might compromise your professional rep. This fidget pen is just that — a pen — but it can be bent, rotated, spun, and transformed to ease your nerves. Use it to reduce stress or to keep yourself focused during meetings. It's even got a magnetic and detachable clip that secures to your bag, so you're never without it. It can also be easily refilled with a standard pen refill, so you'll be able to use it for a long time.

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3. This Hilarious Stress Ball Is Named Paul

SUCK UK Stress Ball Paul, $12, Amazon

Think of Stress Ball Paul as your emergency outlet whenever things get a little rough. When you're feeling anxious, he's always chilling in your desk drawer, already rolled into fetal position. He's made from soft silicone rubber that's durable and super satisfying to squeeze, and reviewers say his hilarious shape is a great conversation piece — and that he's strong enough to endure a lot of squeezing.

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4. A Warming, Lavender-Scented Neck Wrap

Happy Wraps Herbal Neck Wrap with Eye Pillow, $20, Amazon

This herbal aromatherapy comfort set comes with a black-out sleep mask, an eye pillow, and a neck wrap. All three are made from luxurious satin, and the neck and eye pillow are filled with microwavable flax seeds and a soothing 12 herb blend. When you warm them up, they release a scent that reviewers call "just perfect for setting a calm mood." However, they can also be put into the freezer for a while if you want to relieve an anxiety-induced headache, and they're 100 percent natural and should last for years.

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5. This Sun-Mimicking Light That Helps Your Brain Produce Serotonin

Verilux HappyLight Liberty Light Therapy Lamp, $70, Amazon

"This thing actually works!" says one surprised reviewer. "I was skeptical, but I've been using it for a week and have more energy, I'm happier, [and] more motivated." The Verilux HappyLight produces 7500 Lux of sun-mimicking light. It's got two different settings and interchangeable lenses, which react with the rods and cones in your eyes to produce serotonin in your brain. This can help lift your mood and happiness levels, and even help reset your circadian rhythm to help improve sleep. It's great for motivation, balancing sleep schedules, easing stress levels, and even reducing those winter blues.

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6. This Calming Aromatherapy Nail Polish Remover That's Actually Good For You

Aromatherapy Nail Polish Remover, $6, Amazon

This aromatherapy nail polish remover amps up the relaxation with its non-toxic and cruelty-free ingredients. As you take off your nail polish, this stuff releases the scent of calming essential oils (like lavender and vanilla) into the air. According to reviewers, "This stuff is AMAZING. It smells great, works well, and lasts longer than say a $3 bottle of (acetone) remover." It's acetone- and alcohol-free, and will help strengthen and moisturize nails and cuticles.

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7. An Anxiety Relief Balm That Can Help When Stress Hits

Wild Thera Natural Anxiety Relief Balm, $15, Amazon

Even though it skips the synthetic ingredients and preservatives, reviewers swear by this natural anxiety relief balm: "Within seconds I felt calmer and more able to handle the situation... All you have to do I massage into your temples, under your nose and on pulse points." It's made with safe and effective ingredients like catnip (yep!), chamomile, and lavender the help relax you, and it's even made with extra-virgin olive oil and natural beeswax to keep skin soft. It's safe to use on the temples, under the nose, or on the wrist.

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8. This Heated, Deep-Kneading Massager That You Can Take Anywhere

Zyllion Travel Shiatsu Pillow Massager, $40, Amazon

This Zyllion Shiatsu pillow massages any and every part of your body using 3-D deep-kneading nobs and an advanced heating function. Its ergonomic shape fits behind the neck or shoulders comfortably, but also works on your lower back and your calves to rid them of tension. Because it's small, has two different power adapters, and comes with straps that attach to just about any chair, you can use it in the car, at the office, or while traveling. "Wow!! This will change your life," says one reviewer.

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9. This Tiny Sound Machine For Distraction Free Sleep, Wireless Music, And Hands-Free Calls

LectroFan Micro Wireless Sleep Sound Machine, $32, Amazon

This tiny wireless sound machine fits in the palm of your hand, but don't be fooled; it's a powerful tool for relaxation. It's pre-programmed with ten soothing sounds, including fan, white noise, and ocean. It's got a compact swivel feature that lets you direct the sound any which way, and it also functions as a Bluetooth speaker with a built-in microphone for music and hands-free calls. It's got a rechargeable battery that will last up to sixteen hours, so it's great for travel.

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10. This Compact Roller To Ease Tension And Massage Your Feet

TheraFlow Foot Massager Roller, $7, Amazon

Simply roll your feet over this textured TheraFlow foot massager to ease tension, stimulate blood flow, reduce pain, and hit all those tense pressure points. It's made from high-quality Theaceae wood, so it lasts, too. It's got a stable base so it stands still as you move your feet across it, and reviewers swear that it gets rid of every knot — and it's quiet, too.

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11. These Authentic Essential Oil Candles That Are Made To Lower Your Stress Levels

Way Out West Aromatherapy Stress Relief Candles, $30 (Set of 2), Amazon

These Way Out West aromatherapy candles for Mother's Day, are high quality, authentic essential oil candles that are specifically made to reduce stress with two gorgeous scents: Eucalyptus Mint and Fields of Lavender. Each lasts over 40 hours, and they come in an adorable gift box with a free wick extinguisher. Reviewers love that these burn clean, without any excess smoke coming out of the flame.

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12. This Comfort Companion Is So Much More Than Your Average Blanket

Tuck: The Ultimate Comfort Companion, $36, Amazon

At first glance, the Tuck looks like your average blanket, but I can confidently say that it's so much more than that. You can wear it as a cozy cloak with thumb holes, tuck your feet into it while you're at the computer, or use it as a travel pillow with a built-in eye mask. The material is so insanely soft and warm, and it's even got pockets to hold your stuff. It also folds up into a pillow, and one reviewer writes: "Almost like a little cloud of comfort just waiting to be enjoyed. By far the best product I've ever owned." No wonder this genius comfort companion was successfully crowdfunded by over 500 percent on Kickstarter.

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13. This Magnesium Spray Helps With Tension, Sleep Issues, And Headaches

ArtNaturals Pure Magnesium Oil Spray, $15, Amazon

Studies show that upping your magnesium could help to reduce anxiety, stress levels, and sleep problems. This ArtNaturals pure magnesium oil spray absorbs quickly into your body to lessen pain and improves your mood. It contains nothing but pure magnesium chloride, and it's even great for headaches. "Once I feel panic and stress start to set in I spray some of this on my abdomen and rub it in," says one reviewer. It's also great to fight fatigue.

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14. A Therapeutic Guided Journal That Gives You A Safe Place To Vent

I'm So Freaking Freaked Out Inner Truth Journal, $16, Amazon

Sometimes you just need a judgment-free place to vent. The I'm So Freaking Freaked Out Inner Truth journal can be that for you. It's filled with reassuring prompts and anxiety-reducing quotations that help ease you out of your most stressful situations. According to reviewers, it's a "wonderful journal for the average person with anxiety. I love just grabbing it and getting the nonsense out of my head." It's a lined journal, too, in case you just need to vent.

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15. These Soothing Collagen Socks With Holes So You Can Paint Your Toes While You Relax

VOESH New York Deluxe Pedicure Collagen Socks, $17 (6 Pack), Amazon

Another great one for your spa night arsenal, these VOESH pedicure socks infuse your feet with moisturizing vitamin E and collagen, but the toes are cut out of it so you can paint your nails. If self-care is how you relax, these great smelling booties are a great way to tackle a few tasks at once.

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16. This Spiked Mat Is The Perfect Way To Try Acupuncture At Home

INTEY Acupressure Mat & Pillow Set, $30, Amazon

Acupressure mats are all the rage right now, and this one comes at a great price — and with a free pillow and carrying bag. It's got 7,560 acupressure spikes that stimulate all the pressure points in your back, relieving tension, reducing pain, and helping to relax your entire body. "My headache was gone in about 10 minutes," one reviewer comments. "I felt more relaxed and centered. I really enjoyed this!" The company suggests to try this for about 20 minutes a day, and the mat itself is made of cotton and eco-friendly foam.

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17. These Head Massagers Can Seriously Relax You

Body Back Company's Scalp Massager, $8 (Set of 2), Amazon

This set of two scalp massagers might just be the best $8 you spend in your life. They increase circulation to the head, relax tired muscles, and relieve headaches. They'll give you a much-needed scalp massage (think the ones you get at the hair salon), and you can use it on your arms and legs, too. Most importantly, they just feel damn amazing: "I am a Licensed Massage Therapist, and this is the only tool that I ever bother to use on my clients. I like to use the scalp massager to end my sessions on, and my clients describe it as 'blissful' and 'heavenly.'"

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18. This Weighted Blanket That Helps To Relax The Nervous System

YnM Weighted Blanket, $138, Amazon

People swear that this YnM weighted blanket lessens anxiety, helps with insomnia, and feels like one huge hug. It helps relax the nervous system by simulating the feeling of being held, and it comes in tons of different sizes, weights, and colors. To choose a size, find one that's about 10 percent of your body weight — and each one is made with 100 percent cotton and hypo-allergenic, non-toxic sand pellets. It's even machine washable, unlike other brands, and it'll keep you warm while still being breathable.

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19. This Lumbar Stretcher Helps Relieve Some Stress-Related Back Tension

Magic Back Lumbar Stretcher, $35, Amazon

For people who hold all their tension in their backs, this Magic Back lumbar stretcher is an awesome thing to have on hand. It restores your natural curvature using a multi-level arch, massage nodes, and three adjustable settings. To use, just press your back on it — it'll naturally and easily realign the spine and decompress the discs in your vertebrae, which help relieve tension. You can also attach it to your office or car chair to boost your posture on-the-go, and reviewers say this is a great way to be more comfortable at your chair all day.

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20. This Sleep Mask That Doubles As A Set Of Comfortable Headphones

ACOTOP Sleep Headphones Eye Mask, $19, Amazon

If you need podcasts and music to help you sleep or meditate (or maybe you just want to block out the world for a while), there's this headphones mask. It covers your eyes and delivers music to your ears simultaneously with a comfortable and ergonomic design. The fabric is extra soft and breathable, the curves fit your face without pressure, and the mask is adjustable to fit anyone. If you like to fall asleep with the headphones on, it's good for both side and back sleepers, and the fabric is even a bit cooling so you won't feel constrained.

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21. This Himalayan Salt Night Light Is Relaxing, Affordable, And Modern

Syntus Mini Himalayan Salt Lamp Night Light, $12, Amazon

This Syntus salt light is made with pure Himalayan salt that lets off negative ions when heated, which helps purify the air, create a relaxing mood, and even help you sleep. It plugs right into your outlet and takes up barely any space, and it'll bring comfort and a soft glow to any room. It comes in your choice of four sculptured baskets for a modern twist, and reviewers say it gives a cozy feel to any room.

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22. This Bulb That Cues Your Body To Start Making Sleepy Hormones

Nite-Nite Light Bulb, $18, Amazon

Created using the same NASA technology that helps astronauts sleep in space, the Nite-Nite light bulb is great for people whose stress gets in the way of their sleep schedule. It doesn't produce any blue wavelength light, so (unlike other lights) it cues the body to start producing melatonin to prepare for sleep. It's also dimmable and gives off a calming amber glow. It's made from renewable, eco-friendly material that's shatterproof, and although it's marketed to new parents, plenty of adults like to use it to help them sleep: "This bulb delivers a nice twilight light (it's a pretty orange-ish hue) that really doesn't interrupt my body's natural unwinding towards sleep. That was the point of this purchase and boy did it deliver! The light is bright enough to read by, or sleep by."

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23. This Brilliant Travel Pillow That's Got Real Lavender Oil In It

Z ZONED DOUGH Aromatherapy Memory Foam Pillow, $19, Amazon

Made from plush dough memory foam and infused with real lavender oil, this travel neck pillow cradles the head, supports the neck, and even has ventilation holes to keep you cool. It's got a soft washable mesh cover, and the scent helps to reduce stress and create a soothing environment wherever you happen to be. It's also cooling, so it won't make you feel hot, and it's extremely breathable.

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24. This Unique Method To Getting Some Aromatherapy In

Zen Monq, $20, Amazon

This Monq aromatherapy device is a personal essential oil diffuser that has no chemicals, or tobacco — it's just essential oils and a coconut-derived vegetable oil that turns it into a safe vapor. The stainless steel device is safe and disposable — you'll get about 150 puffs out of each — and this one is meant to calm and clear the mind. It has frankincense to restore calm, sweet orange to clarify the mind, and ylang ylang to soothe. One reviewer writes: "It's meant for a few puffs every now and then during the day when you feel like you need it. It has about 200 uses most last about two weeks to a month depending on how often you use it. Its the same stuff that comes out of a defuser. Water and essential oils. Nothing else. It's very easy to breath in just like regular air."

Bustle may receive a portion of sales from products purchased from this article, which was created independently from Bustle's editorial and sales departments.

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