Do Anxiety Pens Really Work? 

Anxiety is a widespread mental health concern that affects millions of people globally. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 301 million people suffered from anxiety disorders in 2019, and that number has likely grown post-pandemic.[1] With increasing public awareness around mental health, a growing market of alternative tools has emerged for stress and anxiety reduction. One such tool is the anxiety pen—a small, handheld device that releases aromatic compounds or other substances designed to calm the mind.

But do anxiety pens really work? Can they provide meaningful relief, or are they just another wellness trend with limited evidence?

In this article, we examine the effectiveness, safety, and clinical context of anxiety pens, drawing on current research and expert insights.

What Are Anxiety Pens?

Anxiety pens—also referred to as aromatherapy pens, CBD pens, or fidget pens—are marketed as tools to help with managing anxiety, calming the nervous system, and promoting relaxation techniques like deep breathing. They typically fall into a few categories:

1. Aromatherapy Pens: These pens contain essential oils like lavender, peppermint, or eucalyptus and produce breathable vapor when inhaled.
2. CBD Pens: These deliver CBD oil (cannabidiol), a non-intoxicating compound derived from cannabis, often inhaled through a vape pen format.
3. Fidget Pens: Non-inhalable tools that help with situational anxiety by offering a tactile distraction.
   

Most anxiety pens are nicotine-free and do not contain addictive substances, though it’s crucial to verify ingredients before use. Some people consider anxiety pens as a holistic treatment option for anxiety disorders. While it may work for some, it’s important to seek evidence-based forms of care.

How Do Anxiety Pens Claim to Work?

1. Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Some anxiety pens use essential oils based on the principle of aromatherapy, a technique long used in holistic practices. The idea is that inhaling certain plant-derived compounds may activate areas in the brain linked to emotions and memory—particularly the limbic system.

Research supports this to an extent. A 2020 systematic review published in Brain Sciences found that aromatherapy showed moderate success in reducing symptoms of chronic anxiety and stress, though many studies were small or lacked robust control groups.[2]

Common essential oils used for anxiety include:

• Lavender: Known for its calming effects.
• Bergamot: A citrus oil believed to reduce anxiety.
• Chamomile: Often associated with promoting calm and improved sleep.
  

These oils, when inhaled, may help people achieve temporary relief from racing thoughts, improve focus, and return to the present moment.

2. CBD Delivery via Pens

CBD pens offer another method of anxiety management. CBD is thought to interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system, influencing serotonin receptors and mood regulation. A 2019 study in The Permanente Journal reported that 79% of participants experienced reduced anxiety levels within the first month of CBD oil use.[3]

However, the delivery method matters. Inhaling CBD may produce faster effects than oral consumption, but long-term studies on lung irritation, heavy metals, or other potential risks of vaping remain limited.

Clinical Perspective: What Does the Research Say?

The published literature on treating anxiety disorders with pens is still in early stages. Much of the available research centers on related concepts like aromatherapy, breathing practices, and mindful breathing, rather than the pens themselves.

Placebo or Proven Treatment?

The placebo effect is a real concern here. According to a 2021 meta-analysis published in Psychiatry Research, many anxiety interventions without pharmacological components showed improvements simply due to participant expectation.[4]

This raises the question: Do anxiety pens work because of their ingredients—or because people believe they do?

While this doesn’t negate their usefulness, it does emphasize that anxiety pens are best seen as supplements to proven treatments, not replacements.

Anxiety Pens vs. Professional Anxiety Treatment

When compared with clinical interventions—such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), medications like SSRIs, or psychiatrist-monitored care—anxiety pens are not comprehensive solutions. For individuals with generalized anxiety, severe anxiety, or panic attacks, using pens in isolation could delay access to professional help.

The American Pharmacists Association and other medical organizations urge people experiencing chronic or worsening anxiety symptoms to seek professional assessment. This includes evaluating for underlying causes like trauma, neurochemical imbalances, or co-existing mental health conditions.

Are Anxiety Pens Safe?

Potential Risks

Although most anxiety pens are marketed as safe, not all products meet safety standards:

• Inhalable pens (like CBD or essential oil-based pens) may contain unregulated substances, solvents, or flavoring agents that can harm the respiratory system.
• Vape pens that aren’t clearly labeled may include traces of nicotine, increasing the risk of addiction or unwanted stimulation.
• Heavy metals from poorly manufactured devices may leach into vapors.
  

If you’re considering one, choose brands with third-party testing and transparent ingredient lists.

The Role of Breathing and Sensory Cues in Anxiety Relief

A key component of many anxiety pens is the encouragement of slow, intentional breathing. Whether inhaling a lavender oil vapor or using a fidget tool, users are prompted to pause and engage in the present moment.

Clinical evidence strongly supports the use of breathing exercises in anxiety management. Techniques like diaphragmatic breathing or box breathing can lower heart rate, reduce physical symptoms like chest tightness or dizziness, and promote self-care.

Thus, while the ingredients in pens may play a role, the implementation guidelines of using them—namely, slowing down and focusing on breath—are likely contributing heavily to the effect.

When Are Anxiety Pens Most Useful?

Anxiety pens may offer support in the following scenarios:

• Mild to moderate stress during work, school, or commuting.
• Situational anxiety, such as public speaking or flying.
• As a natural alternative for those avoiding medication.
• As a complement to traditional therapy or psychiatry.
  

They can serve as a coping skill or self-care ritual to improve daily well-being—but they should not be seen as a solution for anxiety-related disorders on their own.

Get Connected to Anxiety Disorder Treatment

People experiencing persistent or chronic anxiety should consult with a licensed therapist, psychiatrist, or primary care provider to create a conceptual framework for treatment that includes evidence-based options. While anxiety pens might work short-term, they do not address the root causes of your distress.

At 1st Step Behavioral Health, we can help you uncover the causes of your anxiety and develop important coping skills to help you feel better day by day. Contact us for more information on how we can help you recover from anxiety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Are anxiety pens suitable for children or teenagers?

While some anxiety pens—especially fidget-style or aromatherapy-based pens—may be appropriate for older children and teens, it’s essential to consult with a pediatrician or mental health professional first. Young individuals may have different sensitivities to essential oils or CBD, and some devices may not be safe due to potential choking hazards or unregulated ingredients. Always check age recommendations and avoid inhalable products for younger users unless medically approved.

2. Can I travel with an anxiety pen on airplanes?

Yes, most non-inhalable anxiety pens (such as fidget pens or aromatherapy roll-ons) can be carried on flights without issue. For inhalable pens (like CBD pens), air travel regulations vary by airline and destination. CBD, even if legal in some areas, may not be permitted across state or international borders. Always check TSA guidelines and local laws before traveling with any vapor-based or oil-containing pen.

3. How often can you use an anxiety pen?

Usage frequency depends on the type of anxiety pen and individual tolerance. Aromatherapy pens can typically be used several times a day, especially when practicing mindful breathing or engaging in relaxation techniques. However, overuse of any vapor product may cause throat or lung irritation. Always follow manufacturer recommendations and monitor how your body responds.

4. Do anxiety pens show up on drug tests?

CBD pens may contain trace amounts of THC depending on their source and purity. Although broad-spectrum or isolate CBD is often THC-free, there’s still a risk of triggering a positive result on a sensitive drug test. If you are subject to routine drug testing (e.g., for work or sports), consult with your doctor before using any CBD product.

5. Are there alternatives to anxiety pens that offer similar benefits?

Yes. Alternatives include:

• Aromatherapy roll-ons for topical use.
• Guided breathing apps to support deep breathing routines.
• Fidget tools like cubes or stress balls for tactile relief.
• Herbal teas or supplements (e.g., valerian root or L-theanine) under professional guidance.
  

Each of these supports anxiety management without relying on vapor-based delivery.

6. Can anxiety pens be used alongside medication or therapy?

In many cases, yes. Anxiety pens can complement traditional treatments like therapy or prescribed medications by providing additional support during high-stress moments. However, always inform your therapist or prescribing physician about any supplementary tools you’re using to ensure they align with your overall treatment plan.

References:

1. Frontiers: Editorial: Case reports in anxiety and stress disorders
2. Science Direct: Benefit of inhalation aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for stress and anxiety in a clinical setting – A systematic review
3. The Permanente Journal: Cannabidiol in Anxiety and Sleep: A Large Case Series
4. The MD Edge: The placebo effect in psychiatric practice