In recent years, more and more millennials have been talking about healing their inner child, a phrase that would’ve sounded strange years ago but now feels completely natural. From therapy conversations to nostalgic hobbies and collecting childhood items, this generation is embracing emotional healing in a way no generation before them has.
But why are millennials so fond of healing their inner child? And what does it look like in everyday life like, for example, me buying Funko Pops and other toys I couldn’t afford or didn’t have growing up?
1. Millennials Grew Up in a Transitional Era
Millennials grew up between two worlds: the simplicity of pre-digital childhoods and the fast-paced, always-connected adulthood shaped by the internet and economic struggles.
Many of us were taught to “be strong,” “be responsible,” and “grow up fast,” often without the emotional tools needed to deal with stress, trauma, or pressure. Now, as adults, we’re circling back to give ourselves what we didn’t receive enough of: gentleness, patience, comfort, and joy.
Healing our inner child feels like finally exhaling.
2. Mental Health Awareness Became Normal
Unlike previous generations, millennials openly talk about therapy, self-care, and emotional healing.
We learned that it’s okay to:
- cry,
- rest,
- ask for help,
- and reconnect with childhood memories.
Healing the inner child isn’t just a trend, it’s a shift toward healthier emotional lives.
3. Nostalgia Brings Comfort
Millennials find healing in nostalgia because it takes us back to a simpler time.
Whether it’s:
- watching old cartoons,
- collecting toys,
- playing classic games, or
- re-reading childhood books,
these small joys help soothe stress and reconnect us with a part of ourselves we may have forgotten.
4. Buying the Things We Couldn’t Have Before
Let’s be honest: a lot of us are buying things we only dreamed of as kids and that’s part of the healing.
For me, that means collecting Funkos and other toys.
It sounds simple, but it’s meaningful.
Growing up, I didn’t always get the toys I wanted not because we can’t but I’d feel bad to spend my parents’ money. Now, as an adult, being able to walk into a store, see a character I love, and actually buy it? It’s a full-circle moment.
It’s not about the toy.
It’s about giving my younger self a little piece of happiness that she didn’t get before.
And every time I add a new Funko to my shelf, it genuinely feels like healing.
5. Reclaiming Joy Without Guilt
Millennials are learning that adulthood doesn’t have to be all stress and seriousness.
Healing the inner child means giving ourselves permission to:
- play,
- rest,
- explore hobbies,
- and enjoy silly little things that make us happy.
We’re redefining adulthood:
Not just responsibilities and bills but fun, creativity, and emotional freedom.
Healing the inner child isn’t about living in the past.
It’s about honoring who we were, understanding what we needed, and giving ourselves the love and comfort we may have missed.
And honestly?
Millennials are doing an amazing job at learning, healing, and growing.
Sunshine after the rain 
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