“Sometimes when a person is feeling stressed, frustrated, or overwhelmed, they have a desire to squeeze,” says Lisa McCrohan, MA, LCSW-C, SEP, a Somatic Experiencing Psychotherapist, Integrative Coach, and author. This is where stress balls can help. Here, the best stress balls on the market, according to a licensed mental health counselor. Price at time of publication: $14 Price at time of publication: $13 Price at time of publication: $26 Price at time of publication: $23 Price at time of publication: $17 Price at time of publication: $14 Price at time of publication: $18 Each one is made with thermoplastic rubber which is hypoallergenic, recyclable, and latex-free. Plus, the set comes with a cloth bag, making them easy to take on the go. Price at time of publication: $8 The ball is coated in a soft polyester material and it has a small finger loop to keep it from rolling out of your hand. When heating it, place it in the microwave for 30 seconds. When cooling the stress ball, the brand recommends placing it in the freezer for 30 minutes. Price at time of publication: $6

Good for party favors

Sized well for kids Price at time of publication: $18

Resistance

A good stress ball should fight back a bit. Strengthening hand, finger, and wrist muscles is what helps relieve joint pain from carpal tunnel, medical procedures, and arthritis. A stress ball made for strength training will have the weight resistance listed and exercise instructions included. 

Multiple Sensory Features

If anxiety management is the primary goal, then a stress ball with multiple sensory features like scent or colors will help calm the brain and nervous system faster and more effectively than the resistance alone.

Why Trust Verywell Mind

As a licensed mental health counselor, Mary Tatum has spent over 15 years working with children, teenagers, and adults who struggle with anxiety, ADHD, trauma, and OCD symptoms. Stress balls can be a helpful and tangible option to help focus and relax our thoughts during intensely stressful situations. While we are all adjusting to the work and daily life changes, it’s important to equip ourselves with as many helpful tools and options as possible.