Everybody has a bad day at work now and then. Some people head for the bar and have a stiff drink, while others choose exercise to relieve the tension. Apparently the 20-somethings — otherwise known as Gen Z — reach for their anxiety bags. Therapists who cater to the young and senseless are charged with helping the little darlings gather some self-regulation tools and keep them within reach for moments of high stress and sensory overload. “It’s a way of distracting and soothing,” explained Dr. Kyra Bobinet. Every anxiety bag differs, depending on what each person needs to calm their nerves. Some use ice packs, some suck on hard candies, others even sniff an aromatherapy wipe. Not every tool works for everyone. Some use noise-cancelling headphones, others listen to soothing music, and yet others fidget with objects that provide a strong sensory touch. The goal is to gradually reduce the number of items you carry, until you eventually reach the point where you can handle ordinary stress without needing the anxiety bag. Who knows, maybe airlines in the future will allow you to bring your “emotional support bag" with you.
