Is a childhood comfort making a comeback among stressed-out adults?
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Feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life isn’t unusual—but the way some people are choosing to cope might surprise you.
A growing number of adults are turning to an unexpected childhood staple: the pacifier.
This isn’t just a nostalgic novelty; it’s part of a trend that’s gaining traction across different countries and social media platforms.
What began as a niche movement in China has now found its way into the hands of adults in the United States, Australia, and beyond.
For some, it’s about stress relief and comfort, while for others, it’s sparking curiosity—and debate—about whether it’s helpful or potentially harmful.
The recent wave of interest in adult-sized pacifiers first took hold in China, where they’ve become a quirky alternative to more conventional relaxation methods like melatonin or meditation.
Online marketplaces such as Taobao and JD.com sell everything from basic models costing just over a dollar to luxury versions priced at $70, with thousands of units sold each month.
One Chinese buyer explained, “When I’m under pressure at work, I feel a sense of safety from childhood.”
The idea is simple—this small silicone accessory can bring back feelings of security and ease.
As videos spread across social media, the trend has begun resonating with stressed-out adults around the world, who post clips of themselves using pacifiers while stuck in traffic, working at their desks, or winding down before bed.
The pacifier’s appeal lies in its ability to tap into a familiar self-soothing reflex.
Psychologists note that repetitive actions like chewing gum or sipping through a straw can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of calm.
Using a pacifier may serve as a physical reminder of safety, offering comfort in moments of tension.
Some users even say it helps with focus, provides relief for ADHD symptoms, or serves as a substitute for smoking.
In an increasingly stressful world, the return to a childhood habit can feel surprisingly grounding.
While occasional use might be harmless, dental professionals warn against making pacifier use a nightly habit.
Dr. Tang Caomin, a dentist in Sichuan, has cautioned that sleeping with a pacifier could interfere with breathing and, in rare cases, pose a suffocation risk.
Long-term use may cause bite misalignment, jaw strain, or disrupted sleep.
American dentists echo these warnings, noting that the risk increases with frequency and duration of use. In short—moderation is key.
Reactions online are split between genuine enthusiasm and lighthearted skepticism.
Some social media users share they’ve used pacifiers for years without dental problems, while others recommend less controversial alternatives like lollipops or chewing gum.
Then there are those who find the trend amusing—one commenter joked, “RIP Sigmund Freud, you would’ve loved whatever this is.”
Whether embraced or mocked, the adult pacifier reflects a wider desire for comfort and emotional relief in everyday life.
Experts see this as part of a larger cultural shift, where young adults seek softer, simpler ways to cope with modern pressures.
This has fueled interest in hobbies like knitting, baking, and even “Adulting 101” classes aimed at teaching life skills.
Economic uncertainty, social media pressures, and lingering pandemic effects have all contributed to this craving for familiarity.
In difficult times, reaching for something that recalls the safety of childhood can be a natural instinct.
If you’re considering giving the trend a go, there are a few things to keep in mind: occasional use is unlikely to cause harm, but it shouldn’t replace other healthy coping habits like exercise, connecting with friends, or practicing mindfulness.
Keep an eye on your dental health and stop if you notice changes in your bite or jaw.
And if pacifiers aren’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to self-soothe—like deep breathing exercises, creative hobbies, or a warm cup of tea.
Read next: Warning: Emerging research uncovers a critical link between everyday behaviors and serious health threats
What about you—do you have a go-to comfort item or routine that helps you get through tough days? Let us know in the comments below!
A growing number of adults are turning to an unexpected childhood staple: the pacifier.
This isn’t just a nostalgic novelty; it’s part of a trend that’s gaining traction across different countries and social media platforms.
What began as a niche movement in China has now found its way into the hands of adults in the United States, Australia, and beyond.
For some, it’s about stress relief and comfort, while for others, it’s sparking curiosity—and debate—about whether it’s helpful or potentially harmful.
Finding comfort in simple routines can mean different things to different people. Image Source: YouTube / Boundless Content Space.
How the adult pacifier trend began
The recent wave of interest in adult-sized pacifiers first took hold in China, where they’ve become a quirky alternative to more conventional relaxation methods like melatonin or meditation.
Online marketplaces such as Taobao and JD.com sell everything from basic models costing just over a dollar to luxury versions priced at $70, with thousands of units sold each month.
One Chinese buyer explained, “When I’m under pressure at work, I feel a sense of safety from childhood.”
The idea is simple—this small silicone accessory can bring back feelings of security and ease.
As videos spread across social media, the trend has begun resonating with stressed-out adults around the world, who post clips of themselves using pacifiers while stuck in traffic, working at their desks, or winding down before bed.
Also read: Eat smart: A nutritionist’s top 3 carbs for stress relief and healthy weight loss
Why some people swear by it
The pacifier’s appeal lies in its ability to tap into a familiar self-soothing reflex.
Psychologists note that repetitive actions like chewing gum or sipping through a straw can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of calm.
Using a pacifier may serve as a physical reminder of safety, offering comfort in moments of tension.
Some users even say it helps with focus, provides relief for ADHD symptoms, or serves as a substitute for smoking.
In an increasingly stressful world, the return to a childhood habit can feel surprisingly grounding.
Also read: Is the “cortisol cocktail” worth the hype? What you should know before sipping this stress-relief trend
The risks dentists want you to know
While occasional use might be harmless, dental professionals warn against making pacifier use a nightly habit.
Dr. Tang Caomin, a dentist in Sichuan, has cautioned that sleeping with a pacifier could interfere with breathing and, in rare cases, pose a suffocation risk.
Long-term use may cause bite misalignment, jaw strain, or disrupted sleep.
American dentists echo these warnings, noting that the risk increases with frequency and duration of use. In short—moderation is key.
Also read: Unlock the secret to melt away stress with this simple color walk technique
The internet’s mixed reaction
Reactions online are split between genuine enthusiasm and lighthearted skepticism.
Some social media users share they’ve used pacifiers for years without dental problems, while others recommend less controversial alternatives like lollipops or chewing gum.
Then there are those who find the trend amusing—one commenter joked, “RIP Sigmund Freud, you would’ve loved whatever this is.”
Whether embraced or mocked, the adult pacifier reflects a wider desire for comfort and emotional relief in everyday life.
Also read: Understanding the “functional freeze”—how stress can keep you stuck
A broader search for comfort in stressful times
Experts see this as part of a larger cultural shift, where young adults seek softer, simpler ways to cope with modern pressures.
This has fueled interest in hobbies like knitting, baking, and even “Adulting 101” classes aimed at teaching life skills.
Economic uncertainty, social media pressures, and lingering pandemic effects have all contributed to this craving for familiarity.
In difficult times, reaching for something that recalls the safety of childhood can be a natural instinct.
If you’re considering giving the trend a go, there are a few things to keep in mind: occasional use is unlikely to cause harm, but it shouldn’t replace other healthy coping habits like exercise, connecting with friends, or practicing mindfulness.
Keep an eye on your dental health and stop if you notice changes in your bite or jaw.
And if pacifiers aren’t for you, there are plenty of other ways to self-soothe—like deep breathing exercises, creative hobbies, or a warm cup of tea.
Read next: Warning: Emerging research uncovers a critical link between everyday behaviors and serious health threats
What about you—do you have a go-to comfort item or routine that helps you get through tough days? Let us know in the comments below!
