Crocheting Toys for Mental Health

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“Those of us who have a creative outlet are the lucky ones,” a friend observed during quarantine and lock-down. In a year of uncertainty and isolation, we worked with our hands, using the simplest of tools and materials, giving ourselves a sense of accomplishment and well-being.

Above: Crochet toys for mental health. Pint-Sized Zoo by Donna Childs shown here.

Crochet is so easy a child can do it. A few wisps of stuffing turn our handiwork into a doll; buttons and thread define a face.  A being can be brought into existence where once there was only a ball of yarn and some scraps. Such a simple act—crocheting stuffed animals, especially small amigurumi—can fulfill so many of our basic needs. And honestly, you don’t even have to be that good at it to reap the benefits.

Crocheting benefits the crocheter as well as the recipients of our beautifully imperfect creations.

Crochet is Soothing

The repetitive motion of crocheting is soothing, releasing serotonin (1), a lack of which is thought to contribute to depression and unhappiness (2). The unlimited variety of colors and textures of yarns give the crocheter ample ways to make choices about what runs through their fingers: cheerful bright colors, calming pastels, and tactile fuzzy or soft yarns.

Crochet Enhances Well-Being

Engaging in a pleasurable activity like crochet releases dopamine (3), another naturally occurring brain chemical, which increases feelings of happiness, a natural high. Taking time for yourself to do something pleasurable will benefit your mental health as well as your overall health, reinforcing gratification.

Crochet Boosts Our Self-Esteem

Crocheting gives us an opportunity to feel good about ourselves. We feel productive and gain a sense of accomplishment. There’s nothing like spending a bit of time with your hook, then having the physical result to admire and show off. Small amigurumi dolls are especially quick and fun to crochet.

Crochet Builds Community

Crafting in groups has a long and rich history, and other crocheters are as close as your LYS or community center. If there isn’t an established group in your area, finding other crocheters is as simple as thumb-tacking a notice to a bulletin board. Inquire at a library or coffee shop for a free public space to meet for an hour or two a week.

Teaching someone else to crochet will not only give them a skill that will reward them, but when they in turn teach and make gifts for others, you will have set in motion immeasurable rewards, likely past your own lifetime.

Crochet is Restorative

The process of crocheting can distract us from stressful thoughts, and even bad habits. Mindfully crocheting can keep us from fruitless ruminating, or from compulsive eating or smoking. The simple act of crochet can help restore our good mental and physical health.

Crocheting Gifts is Gratifying

While crocheting for another person—even if it’s for charity, and not for someone you personally know—you imbue that item with your generous intentions, giving you that warm glow when you surrender it to a new home.

Crocheting Stuffed Animals Comforts Adults

Recent surveys (4) find that half of the adults in the US own a stuffed animal, and most of those people are sleeping with one. Surprising, because we won’t admit to it, but many of us cuddle up with a silent friend for comfort, security, a sense of nostalgia, or to ease loneliness or grief.

Crochet can save lives—keep crocheting!

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In early 2023, Donna Childs will be releasing a series of amigurumi and stuffed animal patterns, specifically designed with crocheting for mental health in mind. To sign up for more info, visit her at donnachilds.blogspot.com.

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For emergency help: The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, confidential support to people in suicidal crisis or mental health-related distress. By calling or texting 988, you’ll connect to mental health professionals with the Lifeline network.

Footnotes:

<sup>1. Neuromolecular Imaging Shows Temporal Synchrony Patterns between Serotonin and Movement within Neuronal Motor Circuits in the Brain
2. What is Serotonin?
3. Boost Mood and Motivation Naturally with 6 Dopamine Kick-Starters
4. Survey: 4 in 10 Adult Americans Still Sleep with Teddy Bear</sup>

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Crochet Stuffed Animals and More Whimsical Fun from Donna