Stress is Ruining Our Health But We’re Fighting it the Wrong Way

Think stress relief always means meditation apps and deep breathing? Think again. Science says PLAY is one of the most effective ways to combat stress, and not just for kids.

I'm a regular on Quora and received the following question: 

What do you think about the rise of the "kidult" trend, where adults buy toys like Jellycats, Lego and Sonny Angels for themselves?

My answer: 

Hi!  In my opinion, the kidult trend feels like a natural response to the fast-paced, high-stress world we live in. And honestly? I think it’s awesome.

It challenges the idea that "growing up" means letting go of joy. Adults today are realizing that play isn’t just for kids - it’s a form of self-care, creativity, and even social connection. These activities bring comfort and a sense of identity in a world that often demands constant seriousness.

Plus, there’s a business side to it. The toy industry has seen a massive shift, with companies like LEGO and Mattel designing products specifically for adults. It’s proof that nostalgia sells and play is timeless.

...the kidult trend is about embracing fun without guilt...and if something makes you happy without hurting anyone, why should there be an age limit?

In a world where relaxation takes a backseat, we’ve forgotten the power of toys - not as distractions, but as tools for mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s LEGO, fidget toys, or board games, play isn’t childish. It’s survival.

The Alarming Impact of Stress on Our Health

Stress affects every system in the body, from increasing the risk of heart disease to weakening the immune system. Here are six eye-opening statistics on how stress impacts both kids and adults:

📌 Adults:

• 77% of adults report experiencing stress that affects their physical health.
• 73% say stress impacts their mental health.
• Chronic stress has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, and depression.

📌 Children & Teens:

• Studies show 1 in 3 kids experience elevated levels of stress, which can lead to sleep issues, anxiety, and even physical symptoms like headaches and stomachaches.
• Eighty percent of kids say they worry about school and expectations placed on them.
• Screen time has doubled in the last decade, but unstructured playtime has significantly declined.

While digital devices dominate our time, people aren’t taking enough breaks to unplug. Research suggests that the average adult spends more than 11 hours per day on screens, and even children spend 7+ hours daily on digital media. However, time spent on true relaxation activities (things like play, creative hobbies, or social time) has significantly decreased.

Why Playing with Toys is a Powerful Stress Reliever

Toys aren’t just for kids. Engaging with toys such as fidget gadgets, building blocks, action figures, or board games triggers dopamine release, which improves mood and reduces anxiety. Here’s why play is an essential stress-busting tool:

✅ Encourages Mindfulness – When you’re building LEGO sets, solving puzzles, or engaging in sensory play, your mind stays in the present moment, reducing overthinking and stress.

✅ Boosts Creativity & Problem-Solving – Play allows the brain to shift away from daily worries and into a space of creativity, imagination, and exploration.

✅ Supports Emotional Regulation – Stress can lead to emotional outbursts in both kids and adults. Engaging in play helps reset emotions and develop coping mechanisms.

✅ Reduces Cortisol Levels – Play naturally lowers cortisol (the stress hormone), helping regulate mood and prevent burnout.

✅ Encourages Social Connection – Playing board games, role-playing with toys, or engaging in group activities strengthens bonds and reduces feelings of isolation.

How to Incorporate Play into Your Day

The best part? You don’t need hours of free time to experience the benefits of play. Just a few minutes a day can significantly lower stress levels. Here are some simple ways to infuse play into daily life:

For Kids:
🧸 Free Playtime: Let kids engage in open-ended play with dolls, cars, building sets, or pretend play.
🎨 Sensory Play: Slime, kinetic sand, and fidget toys provide a hands-on stress relief method.
🎲 Board Games & Puzzles: Encourages problem-solving while giving kids a break from screens.
🚲 Outdoor Play: Running, jumping, and engaging with nature reduces anxiety and improves focus.

For Adults:
🧩 Puzzles & Brain Games: Sudoku, crosswords, and LEGO sets give your brain a break while keeping it engaged.
🎮 Casual Gaming: Low-pressure video games or tabletop games can serve as stress relief.
🎨 Creative Play: Try adult coloring books, modeling clay, or DIY craft kits.
🤹 Fidget & Stress Toys: Simple tools like stress balls, fidget spinners, and kinetic sand can help reduce anxiety in seconds.

The Long-Term Benefits of Reducing Stress

When kids and adults make time for play, the benefits go beyond just feeling good in the moment. Long-term stress reduction leads to:

💖 Better Heart Health – Lower blood pressure and reduced risk of heart disease.
🧠 Sharper Cognitive Function – Improved memory, problem-solving, and focus.
😌 Better Emotional Well-Being – Reduced anxiety and an overall boost in happiness.
😴 Improved Sleep – Less stress means better rest, which improves overall health.

Final Thoughts: Make Time to Play

We often think of play as something for children, but it’s actually a vital part of self-care for all ages. Whether you're a parent, a student, or a busy professional, making time for play, even for just a few minutes a day, can lead to profound mental and physical benefits.

What’s your favorite stress-relieving toy or activity? Let us know in the comments below! 🎲✨ 

#PlayForHealth #StressRelief #MindfulPlay