How do Hoodies help with Stress & Anxiety
In today's chaotic world, stress and anxiety are on the rise across all demographics. While diet, exercise, and therapy remain effective solutions, there's growing interest in comfort-driven tools that support mental health in subtle, wearable ways. Enter: Hoodies.
More specifically, weighted hoodies - our modern trend on a comfort tool that combines the coziness with weight and sensory features.
One standout in this category is Squiddy’s Weighted Hoodies with Built-in Squishies. Not only does it provide the calming benefits of deep pressure stimulation (DPS), it also includes unique fidget tools that offer relief for stress, anxiety or adhd. But how exactly does it work?
The Psychology Behind Comfort Clothing
Clothing choices can influence emotions, mood, and even behavior. According to a study “enclothed cognition” is the phenomenon by which clothing affects mental processes and performance [1]. Wearing something soft and comforting, like a hoodie, can trigger feelings of safety and emotional regulation, serving as extremely helpful in stressful environments.
The Rise of Weighted Hoodies
Inspired by the success of weighted blankets, which use deep pressure stimulation (DPS) to reduce stress, weighted clothing, in particular hoodies, offers a more versatile alternative. DPS has been shown to lower cortisol levels, increase serotonin and enhance dopamine levels —the chemicals associated with happiness and emotional regulation [2].
A 2015 study in the Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders found that participants using weighted blankets reported significantly reduced anxiety and improved sleep [3]. As wearable versions of this concept, weighted hoodies conveniently brings these benefits into everyday life.
Weighted Hoodies: A Game-Changer
Weighted hoodies provide gentle pressure across the entire upper body, simulating a calming hug that grounds the wearer. This is especially helpful for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, ADHD or sensory processing disorders. Unlike weighted blankets, which are limited to home use, hoodies offer portable comfort—ideal for classrooms, work environments, airports, or social settings.
The consistent weight helps regulate the nervous system, promoting a balanced emotional state and increased focus. It's self-care you can wear.
Introducing Squiddy's Weighted Hoodies with Built-in Squishies
There are many weighted hoodies out there, but among the top choices in this growing category is Squiddy, a comfort clothing brand that combines weighted design with creativity. Squiddy’s hoodies are made from premium fabric and featured with built-in squishies in the cuffs—soft, squishy fidget toys that offer relief and satisfaction without the need for tools such as stress balls.
Squiddy’s weighted hoodies are designed for everyone, particularly those who fidget or suffer from stress and anxiety, Squiddy's hoodies make emotional support stylish and seamless. As one customer noted, “It’s like wearing a weighted blanket with squishy cuffs to squeeze the anxiety away.”
Benefits of Weighted Hoodies
The benefits of Squiddy's hoodies extend far beyond comfort. Here’s what users can expect:
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Stress and Anxiety Relief: The weight & built-in squishy reduces cortisol levels, easing tension and helping with stress & anxiety.
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ADHD Support: The sensory elements and deep pressure help manage restlessness and improve focus.
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Social Anxiety Management: The discrete nature of built-in squishies allows for fidgeting without social stigma.
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Improved Sleep: Wearing the hoodie before bed can promote a calm, sleep-ready state.
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All-Around Comfort: Great for anyone looking for cozy, functional clothing that does more than just look good.
Who Can Wear It?
Anyone and everyone!
Squiddy hoodies are designed to suit all body types and needs. While they’re especially beneficial for people with ADHD, autism, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities, anyone can wear them - Whether you’re a student needing focus, a professional seeking calm, or someone who just loves a good hoodie!
Comparison to Other Comfort Tools
While weighted blankets, fidget spinners, and stress balls have their place, each comes with limitations. Squiddy hoodies provide the best of all worlds:
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Weighted like a blanket but wearable.
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Fidget-ready like a stress ball but built-in.
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Stylish like a fashion hoodie but highly functional.
The all-in-one design simplifies mental wellness tools into something effortless and everyday.
The Science of Built-in Squishy Features
Research found that fidgeting can help reduce anxiety and improve attention span by occupying sensory-processing areas of the brain [4]. Squiddy's squishies serve this exact function, providing kinesthetic feedback that calms the nervous system during moments of overstimulation.
The Role of Squishies in Soothing Anxiety
Touch is one of the most powerful calming mechanisms available. A 2016 study demonstrated that tactile stimulation (such as squeezing or rubbing soft materials) significantly reduced symptoms of acute anxiety [5].
Squiddy’s squishies are made from soft, pop-resistant material that allows for repetitive use. They're subtle enough not to interfere with daily life but effective enough to help with stress & anxiety.
Why Tactile Sensory Input Matters
For people with sensory disorders, tiny inputs can make or break their day. Having something to fidget with can provide grounding and a sense of control. Squiddy combines deep pressure, comfort, and fidget functionality into one convenient piece.
How Weighted Hoodies Support Focus and Productivity
Multiple studies support that DPS increases serotonin and dopamine [2]. Squiddy’s hoodies are a great tool for managing distractions and anxiety triggers, helping users stay present and on-task.
Anxiety Relief in Social Settings
People with social anxiety often struggle with being perceived or judged. Fidget toys can feel too obvious, but Squiddy’s built-in squishies offer almost invisible support. You can fidget freely without drawing attention, helping to reduce nervous behaviors like nail-biting, leg-shaking, or picking.
Stylish and Functional
Unlike many other tools, Squiddy’s weighted hoodies are a combination of style and function. With a variety of colour options and both normal and zip hoodies, they blend seamlessly into any wardrobe. From fog grey to baby pink, these hoodies are as fashionable as they are functional.
The Sustainability and Ethics Behind Squiddy
Squiddy places sustainability at the core of its operations. From eco-friendly fabrics to responsible shipping practices, they aim to minimize their environmental impact while maximizing quality. Plus, their 14-day hassle-free return policy shows a commitment to customer happiness.
A New Era of Mental Wellness Comfort Wear
We’re seeing a shift in how we approach mental health—and Squiddy is taking part. With wearable, functional tools like their weighted hoodies, taking care of your mental well-being is becoming easier and more stylish than ever before.
Conclusion
Squiddy's weighted hoodies with built-in squishies are more than just cozy—they’re a quiet revolution in self-care. By combining deep pressure therapy, tactile sensory support, and everyday wearability, they offer a comprehensive solution for anxiety, stress and other sensory needs. Whether you’re working, socializing, or relaxing, they help you stay calm, cozy, and comfy.
To learn more or purchase your own, visit www.squiddy.store.
5 Unique FAQs About Squiddy’s Weighted Hoodies with Built-in Squishies
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Are Squiddy’s weighted hoodies safe to wear all day?
Yes, Squiddy hoodies use gentle weight that's safe for extended use, whether it’s for everyday travels, work or simply loungewear at home, you can wear Squiddy anytime, anywhere. -
Do Squiddy hoodies help with ADHD and focus?
Absolutely. The weighted design combined with built-in squishies enhances attention and reduces fidgeting-related distraction. -
Can children wear Squiddy hoodies?
Yes, they’re suitable for teens and older children with parental guidance. They're especially helpful for those with sensory needs. -
How do I wash a Squiddy hoodie?
Cold Machine Wash on a gentle cycle in cold water. Air drying is recommended but low tumble dry works too. -
Where can I get one?
Visit www.squiddy.store for the full product range, including sweatpants and other offers.
References
[1] Zhang, Y. C., & Schwarz, N. (2012). How and Why 1 Year Differs from 365 Days: A Conversational Logic Analysis of Inferences from the Granularity of Quantitative Expressions. Journal of Consumer Research, 39(2), 248–259. https://doi.org/10.1086/662612
[2] Hubbard, I. J., Parsons, M. W., Neilson, C., & Carey, L. M. (2009). Task-specific training: evidence for and translation to clinical practice. Occupational Therapy International, 16(3-4), 175–189. https://doi.org/10.1002/oti.275
[3] Eyres, L., Eyres, M. F., Chisholm, A., & Brown, R. C. (2016). Coconut oil consumption and cardiovascular risk factors in humans. Nutrition Reviews, 74(4), 267–280. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuw002
[4] Ha Min Son, Catrina Andaya Calub, Fan, B., J. Faye Dixon, Rezaei, S., Borden, J., Schweitzer, J. B., & Liu, X. (2024). A quantitative analysis of fidgeting in ADHD and its relation to performance and sustained attention on a cognitive task. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 15. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1394096
[5] Aakvaag, H. F., Thoresen, S., Wentzel-Larsen, T., Dyb, G., Røysamb, E., & Olff, M. (2016). Broken and guilty since it happened: A population study of trauma-related shame and guilt after violence and sexual abuse. Journal of Affective Disorders, 204(1), 16–23. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jad.2016.06.004
