Her Campus Logo Her Campus Logo
Wellness > Mental Health

The Cuddly Therapy Dupe: Why Having Stuffed Animals In College Is Beneficial For You

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Mass Amherst chapter.

Is the bed in your dorm covered with plushies and stuffed animals? Then congratulations, you already have one of the best beds on campus. But if you don’t have any stuffed animals mingling on your bed yet, then his article is for you. 

While leaving for college is thrilling, the transition can be challenging. Many students find themselves in a strange and new environment, far away from their family and friends, up against social and intellectual pressure. Possessing a stuffed animal during these trying times can give comfort and support. Here are some incredible and magical ways a cuddly friend can help you in college: 

They Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety

For many students, college can be a stressful time. It is simple to feel overburdened by social and intellectual demands. Stress and anxiety can be lessened by holding and cuddling a plush animal. According to a 2016 study, holding a plush animal during group therapy helped college students feel more at ease. 

They Can Improve Your Sleep

Sleep is crucial for both physical and mental health, but it can be challenging to get enough of it when you’re under stress or feeling anxious. Having a stuffed animal to cuddle with can promote calmness and relaxation, which can make it simpler to get to sleep and stay asleep.

Your Forever Childhood Friend

The transition to college can be difficult, and many students experience homesickness. Taking a plush animal from home or buying a new one can help make a new place feel familiar and like home. Having a familiar object to hold onto might also lessen feelings of loneliness and seclusion. This one is extremely true for me. My best friend and I are on opposite sides of the country, and any time I miss her, I hold the fluffy unicorn she gave me four years ago and it makes me feel comforted. 

The Study Buddy You Didn’t Know You Needed

Most college students will have the experience of pulling an all-nighter to finish their school work or study for an exam at least once, and those long nights can be hard without a fluffy companion. Stuffed animals not only make excellent study partners, but they also won’t take your munchies or distract you with idle chatter.

Your Wing Man

Having a stuffed animal is a terrific conversation starter if you’re feeling a little shy around people. Perhaps someone will compliment your adorable animal, or perhaps you’ll connect with someone over your mutual love of cuddly objects.

Having a stuffed animal as a companion during your journey in college isn’t just a cute novelty; it’s a brilliant move. Stuffed animals can offer all of these benefits and more, whether you’re looking for emotional support, stress reduction, or simply to have fun. So indulge in your plushie obsession; your mental health will thank you for it, plus it is not bad to flop down onto a bed full of fluffy and soft plushies after a long and hard day at school.

Can’t get enough of HC UMass Amherst? Be sure to follow us on Instagram, listen to us on Spotify, like us on Facebook, and read our latest Tweets!

Her Campus Placeholder Avatar
Lenyx Le

U Mass Amherst '25

Lenyx is majoring in Studio Art, with a concentration in Animation. She enjoys going to museums, reading, fashion, and listening to music.