Dealing with stress and anxiety can be incredibly difficult, especially if you don’t have reliable ways to cope with the symptoms when you experience them. Millions of adults live with some type of anxiety disorder, any many more still suffer from acute stress and anxiety in a consistent way. The global pandemic and the restrictions put into place due to COVID-19 have created even more tension and fear for many all over the world. While it may seem hopeless sometimes, there are actually a lot of things you can do to help improve your mindset and your mood. If you’re looking for something new to try, read on to learn more about five great products that can help manage your anxiety.

1. White Noise Machines

Insomnia is one of the most side effects associated with anxiety and various anxiety disorders like social anxiety disorder, so finding ways to fall asleep and stay asleep should always be a priority. White noise machines have been a staple for those who need a little help turning their brain off at the end of a long day for years, and many people feel they’re a game-changer for relaxing the mind. If you don’t want to invest in a white noise machine, you can also find apps for your phone that offer meditations or white noise effects that you can play as you’re falling asleep.

2. CBD Oil

Anyone not already familiar with CBD products has likely learned at least something about them in recent years. CBD, a cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant, doesn’t contain THC, which means CBD products don’t produce the signature high associated with marijuana. Consumers are already raving about the effects that cannabidiol-based products have. While medical studies are still ongoing, users are already extolling their benefits. The FDA has even approved a medication called Epidiolex in the United States, designed to treat certain seizure disorders, that derives an active ingredient from CBD.

If you’re looking for the best CBD for anxiety or related symptoms, it’s best to read reviews from consumers to learn about the effects they experienced from a product or a brand. The potency, dosage and quality of tinctures, edibles, CBD oils, and other CBD products can vary significantly depending on the brand and manufacturer. As with any supplement or product you plan to ingest, talk to your doctor first before making it a part of your daily routine.

3. Weighted Blanket

If you’ve never used one before, a weighted blanket is a specialty blanket that typically can weigh up to 30 pounds, and can lessen pain, reduce symptoms of anxiety, promote relaxation, aid insomnia, and even help with your general mood. Experts recommend a weight that is somewhere around 10% of your total body weight, and many customers prefer models with features like temperature regulation. One thing to keep in mind is that weighted blankets are not recommended for use with small children, especially those under 2 years old.

4. Sun Lamp

Whether or not you have seasonal affective disorder, a lack of sunlight can have a significant impact on your mood and your symptoms of anxiety. While spending more time outdoors is a great remedy in some climates, it can be difficult to find ways to get out and enjoy the sun in the winter or in poor weather. Consult your doctor before investing in a full spectrum sun lamp to get an idea of what intensity is best for you, and make sure you avoid looking directly at the light.

5. Coloring Book

Sometimes a relaxing activity is the best way to take your mind off whatever has you stressed. There are even studies that link coloring specifically to mindfulness and keeping you focused in the present. In addition to being an affordable alternative form of anxiety medication, adult coloring books are available with themes from recreations of fine art to simple cartoons, it’s easy to find something that appeals to you.

Whether it’s an adjustment to your environment like a sun lamp or a white noise machine, or simply adding in an activity that can help distract you from the rest of the world, it’s worth experimenting to see what coping techniques might help reduce the presence of anxiety in your life. Don’t be afraid to try something new into your routine if you’re struggling to get through the day without being plagued with stress and self-doubt. If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to a friend or mental health professional who may be able to offer some advice. While it can take some trial and error, there are plenty of products out there that can help anxiety sufferers find relief from their symptoms.