Individuals with mental illness and other behavioral health problems often struggle with such symptoms as anxiety, restlessness, poor attention span, and feeling overwhelmed. While the benefits of therapy, peer support, and proper medication are important, sometimes an effective solution for a particular symptom can also be the simplest.

One example is what is known as a sensory bottle or calm-down jar. Designed originally to teach young children to develop their sensory skills and learn to better self-regulate their moods and activity levels, this tool can also be used with adults to provide a calming and focusing effect. Used often with individuals to manage challenges of autism, attention deficit order, dementia, and severe anxiety, a sensory bottle can be a colorful and fun alternative to stress balls for anybody who needs a “time out” for a moment of quiet meditation.

Recently, a group of peers learned how to make their own sensory bottles when two Georgia Southwestern State University volunteered their time at Perry Wellness Center. Local education students Christina Wynn and Sam Blalock discussed how individuals can learn to better use their five senses to cope with stressors in a typical day. 

Peers then were led in creating their own sensory bottles, using simple ingredients; e.g., water bottles, glue, glitter, and colorful items which could drift through the thickened water inside. After they completed their project, peers were encouraged to take their personalized bottles home to use when feeling stressed or overwhelmed. Certified peer specialist April Daniel facilitated the discussion. 

Readers who want to create sensory bottles, either for their children or for their own desks, can find some tips at the Especially Education website. The article provides instructions on three projects: a glitter, rainbow, and glow-in-the-dark bottle. 


Most DIY projects involve the use of the following:

• • Warm water
  • Thickening agent; e.g., clear glue, liquid soap, cooking oil, shampoo
  • Glitter and/or food coloring
  • Floating objects; e.g., beads, small toys, game pieces, marbles, shells
  • Bottle sealer such as super glue

For a sensory bottle that provides both visual and auditory focus, omit the water and add dry objects such as rice, beans, sand, small rocks, dried flowers or leaves. Shaking the bottle will create a soothing or rhythmic sound, depending on the items used.

Have fun with your own projects! Our great thanks to GSWU students Christina Wynn and Sam Blalock for all their assistance.