Many college students suffer from mental illness, according to The Brink. The pressure to do well can wreak mental havoc without an outlet to relieve stress. Having hobbies can improve your mood and give you something to do in your free time outside of class and work. 

One effective way to cope with mental illness is collecting stuffed animals. It might sound silly, but a lot of adults actually do it. A study from Study Finds showed that  four in every ten adult Americans still sleep with stuffed animals.

Stuffed animals can help lessen stress and depression, according to research from the UV University Amsterdam. 

Stuffed animals can be helpful in a lot of ways, especially to college students. They’re comforting and can soothe you during stressful events at college. 

Last Tuesday during ULM’s homecoming events, there was a booth with a small assortment of stuffed animals for students to stuff and dress. Within an hour or so, the booth was out of stock.

Many companies are working to make stuffed animals more exciting and appealing to all age groups. Collecting stuffed animals has recently become popular because of this.

Finding the next stuffed animal to complete a collection is a fun pastime for many.  

Although collectable brands such as Beanie Babies aren’t as popular anymore, there are other stuffed animal brands stepping up to take their place.  For example, Squishmallows have become a popular item to collect.

According to Insider, Squishmallows have expanded past a child audience and attracted people of all ages.

Collectors have become so dedicated that when a new animal is released, stores will sell out within a day.

Owning stuffed animals shouldn’t be embarrassing if you enjoy them and know they help when you’re stressed. I collect Beanie Babies and other stuffed animals and I often see teenagers and older buying stuffed animals as well. 

While stuffed animals don’t cure mental issues, enjoying being able to hold or look at them when you feel bad is often calming and comforting enough.