Transforming Lives, One Session at a Time. Calming the Brain
Funded Sep 23, 2024Anxiety and panic attacks are prevalent mental health challenges that can disrupt daily life. Recent anecdotal evidence suggests that consuming sour candy may provide a temporary relief for some individuals experiencing these conditions. The intense sour flavor engages the senses, potentially diverting attention from anxious thoughts and grounding the individual in the present moment (Garone, 2024). This sensory engagement aligns with established grounding techniques, which emphasize redirecting focus to physical sensations as a means of managing anxiety (Timothy, 2024).
The physiological response to sour candy consumption may also play a role in its potential benefits. When individuals experience anxiety or panic, their amygdala—the brain's fear center—activates, often leading to heightened distress. Engaging with an intensely sour taste could help dampen this response by stimulating the frontal cortex to reassess perceived threats (Timothy, 2024). However, while this strategy may serve as an effective short-term distraction during acute episodes of anxiety or panic. So many times students come to my office feeling symptoms of panic or anxiety and providing a quick relief for them is essential. They have to be able to go back to class and focus. I Use the tissues and play doe as a form of stress relief and distraction.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Ruggiero-Grippo