Surprising Psychological Benefits of Owning Teddy Bears

Teddy bears are more than just cuddly toys – they’re powerful allies in promoting emotional well-being. These soft companions are often a source of comfort during stressful times, helping to relieve anxiety and fostering a sense of security.

They help to promote relaxation and a sense of calm, reducing stress hormones. Moreover, they can serve as transitional objects in helping individuals cope with change and uncertainty.

Boosts Mood

Whether you’re going through a rough patch or just need some extra comfort, owning a teddy bear offers a sense of security and support that will help you feel better. Cuddling or snuggling with your teddy can trigger the release of oxytocin, which is known as the “love hormone” or “bonding hormone.” This helps to lower your heart rate and blood pressure and reduces anxiety, promoting relaxation. In addition, the soft touch and familiar presence of a teddy can make it easier to fall asleep at night, leading to improved sleep quality.

For kids, owning a teddy can be a source of comfort as they transition from being dependent on their parents to being more independent. During this stage, it’s common for children to feel insecure or nervous about new situations. A teddy can be like a little portable piece of Mom or Dad that they can take everywhere they go. It can also help them get in touch with their emotions by talking through them with the teddy and reassuring it that they’re safe and loved.

For adults, teddy bears can offer a similar emotional boost by serving as a reminder of happier times and encouraging positive thoughts. They can also serve as an empathetic listener, providing comfort and support when needed. In addition, cuddling with a teddy can trigger the release of serotonin and oxytocin, which are both known as “feel-good” hormones that can improve mood.

Reduces Stress

A teddy bear’s comforting presence provides a powerful emotional lift, helping to alleviate stress and anxiety. In fact, research has found that cuddling with a teddy bear reduces cortisol levels, the body’s natural stress hormone. The calming effects of a soft furry friend can be especially helpful for those suffering from symptoms of depression or trauma, such as fear and feelings of loneliness.

The teddy bear’s soothing effect has also been linked to improved self-esteem and increased confidence. Many people feel a greater sense of strength and independence after spending time with a teddy. They can then face life’s challenges with optimism and a sense of security that stems from their deep bond with a trusted companion.

During times of high stress, such as after a natural disaster or in the wake of an act of violence, people turn to teddy bears for help and support. In the aftermath of the Australian bushfires in late 2019 and early 2020, UNICEF provided children with handmade teddy bears that they could keep to help them cope with the trauma.

Teddy bears, examples being ones from Bears4U, have the power to connect with us across all age groups, transcending the societal norms that view adults as odd or immature for engaging in the childish behaviour of snuggling up with a soft toy. Stuffed animals are a great choice for adults who may not be able to have pets due to work or living arrangements. Besides, they’re portable (even our Lifesize teddy bear can fit in your bag) and offer the same hormonal benefits that a pet can provide without the hassle of having to check with your landlord or pay for food or vet bills.

Boosts Self-Esteem

Especially for children, having their favourite teddy bear to cuddle with can boost feelings of self-worth and security. They can develop an emotional bond with their teddy that often lasts a lifetime. They may even talk to their bear and tell it things they would not tell anyone else, as a form of self-therapy.

This sense of attachment and trust can help children to feel less anxious about their daily activities, as well as their emotions. As they grow older, their teddy bear can teach them to find that same sense of comfort within themselves, without needing their parents.

Teddy bears are known as ‘transitional objects’ because they can be used to self soothe and reduce stress in children when their parent is not available. For this reason, many people, including adults, carry their teddy bear around with them to promote a feeling of security and wellbeing.

If your friend or loved one is going through a tough time, a teddy bear can be a great way to show your support. You can buy them a new one, or simply dig out their old childhood teddy that they have been keeping in a cupboard somewhere.

A 2022 study found that owning a teddy bear can play an important role in boosting feelings of comfort. Participants rated their own bears as more comforting than both standard and stranger bears, with an emotional bond being the biggest factor in this. The size of the bear and its fur quality also played a key role in its perceived comforting qualities. As a result, it is a great idea to choose a soft teddy bear for kids and adults alike, like the life-size bears at Giant Bears.

Improves Sleep

The soft and cuddly nature of a teddy bear offers a physical source of comfort. The act of stroking it releases serotonin and oxytocin, boosting moods and combating stress. A teddy bear also creates a sense of safety and security for adults, similar to the feeling of being snuggled up in a blanket with a loved one.

A teddy bear serves as a reminder of a simpler time and evokes memories of positive experiences and loved ones. This can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. In addition, teddy bears provide emotional support and encourage people to express their emotions. This can be particularly beneficial for children who suffer from trauma, as a teddy bear is non-judgmental and can be used to process their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged.

Teddy bears are a comforting companion that offer unwavering love and support, promoting a sense of self-worth and elevating confidence levels. Their loyal companionship also helps improve mental health by fostering self-love and understanding. They are often used in therapy settings, providing a safe space for individuals to process their thoughts and feelings.

It’s completely normal to sleep with a teddy bear as an adult, so long as it doesn’t interfere with your work or relationships. However, if you find yourself relying on your teddy bear to get a good night’s sleep, it could be a sign of an underlying problem. It’s important to seek professional help if this is the case. Otherwise, your teddy bear will continue to serve as a trusted source of comfort and security. Keep in mind that your teddy bear will accumulate a lot of bacteria over time, so it’s best to choose one that can be machine-washed regularly.

Fosters Emotional Connection

When kids are scared or anxious, they often turn to a blanket or stuffed animal for comfort. This is because they associate these items with a familiar, reassuring presence that helps them transition into sleep at night. For adults, teddy bears can also provide emotional comfort and support.

Studies have found that teddy bears are powerful tools in helping children learn about emotions and social skills. They can help children express their feelings through play with the teddy, which in turn leads to more empathy and understanding of other people. Caring for a teddy also teaches children how to share, and can foster a sense of responsibility in them, which may later serve as the basis for healthy, happy relationships.

Adults who still own their teddy bears often use them for decorative enjoyment and to remind them of cherished connections with others. Some even collect them as a hobby. For example, for a mother away from her daughter on military duty or a couple in a long-distance relationship, teddy bears can offer comfort and emotional connection.

Owning a teddy bear can offer many psychological benefits, ranging from boosting self-esteem to improving sleep. These cuddly companions are a symbol of love and support, and they can help us to feel connected and confident, no matter what challenges life brings our way. By embracing the companionship of a teddy bear, we can become more able to handle life’s difficulties with grace and courage. After all, teddy bears aren’t just toys — they are enduring friends, who will always be by our side.