Anxiety is an annoying companion, sometimes turning everyday moments and simple tasks into huge challenges. Today is World Mental Health Day, it’s a reminder to reflect on our mental health journeys and the unique way we cope. For years, I struggled to manage my anxiety, logically knowing I wasn’t the only person dealing with it, but often feeling like I was the only one in the world with these feelings. It wasn’t until I discovered a small coping mechanism—a simple piece of Velcro—that I began to find comfort.

A Tactile Sensitivity

I always noticed that I had some kind of tactile sensitivity. As a little girl, I would rub my face against stuffed animals and run my fingers over rough surfaces like the seams of clothing. There was something comforting in those sensations, a way to soothe myself when the world felt overwhelming. This need for tactile interaction continued into adulthood, eventually leading me to the discovery of a new solution to add to my anxiety toolbox.

The Velcro Solution

I first realized that Velcro could be a cool solution when I was carrying a backpack one day and my fingers brushed against a piece of Velcro on its surface. I found a piece of adhesive type (hook side) of Velcro and folded it in half so I have a two sided piece to carry in my pocket. At first, carrying it in my pocket felt strange. I worried that others would judge me if they saw me fidgeting with it. Occasionally, I would drop it and I would feel such embarrassment. The fear of being noticed, of standing out for something I considered odd, made my anxiety even worse. Yet, the tactile sensation of pressing the Velcro into my fingertips provided a sense of relief. It was my little secret—a simple act that helped ground me when I felt unsteady.

The Journey to Acceptance

For a long time, I thought I was weird for relying on this piece of looped fabric. I kept it hidden, ashamed of my need to fidget. But one day, during a routine check-up, I mustered the courage to confide in my doctor about my Velcro habit. To my surprise, she didn’t react with judgment or disbelief. Instead, she shared that many people use similar techniques to cope with anxiety. It was a lightbulb moment for me; I was not alone in my struggles.

This conversation opened the floodgates to a new understanding. It was no longer just a piece of looped fabric; I could now think of it a tool to control my anxiety.

Around 2017, fidget spinners and other sensory toys began to flood the market, I started to see a community forming around these coping mechanisms. I learned about others who carry small items like paper clips in their pockets, using them to fidget discreetly during stressful moments, such as when making speeches. Suddenly, I realized I wasn’t the only one seeking comfort in the tactile world. It felt liberating to realize that my method of managing anxiety was not just acceptable—it was normal.

Embracing Fidgeting

I still have a small sense of embarrassment around the Velcro in my pocket, but with this blog I’m hoping to let it go. I embrace it as a part of my daily routine. It’s a reminder that I have a strategy to manage my anxiety. My hope is that talking about it will become a way for others to share their own fidgeting habits, whether it’s squeezing a stress ball, a calm strip on your keyboard, or using a fidget cube. We must foster an environment of openness, making discussions about mental health less stigmatized and more relatable.

Final Thoughts

Please remember that anxiety can feel isolating, and everyone has their own methods of coping. Whether it’s Velcro, fidget spinners, paper clips, or something entirely different, these tools can provide comfort in times of stress. By sharing our experiences, we can create a supportive community where it’s okay to be different. So, if you find relief in a piece of Velcro or any other fidgeting tool, know that you’re not weird—you’re simply finding your path to calm in a chaotic world. So tell me below, how do you manage your anxiety?

This article was originally posted on LinkedIn on October 10, 2024.

World Mental Health Day

As we recognize World Mental Health Day, it’s a poignant reminder of the importance of mental well-being in our lives. This year, I am recommitting to a campaign at GDIT that emphasizes the value of checking in on those around us. Whether it’s colleagues, loved ones, friends, or neighbors, a simple yet profound question can make all the difference: “How Are You, Really?”

You never know who may be struggling on any given day. By taking the time to ask and genuinely listen, we can create a supportive community where everyone feels valued and heard. So let’s #KeepAsking and stick around to listen to the response. Together, we can foster a culture of openness and compassion that truly makes an impact.

As we reflect on the significance of mental health, let’s remember that our small gestures can lead to significant changes in the lives of others. Let’s keep this conversation going and continue to check in on one another.

·      GDIT How Are You, Really? Resources

Articles about Touch and Anxiety:

Deep Pressure Therapy: A Promising Anxiety Treatment for Individuals With High Touch Comfort?, National Library of Medicine

How Your Sense of Touch Can Reduce Your Anxiety, University Hospitals

Sensory Tools for Adult Anxiety: A Comprehensive Guide, Caregiving Network