Thoughtful Mental Health Gifts
As we approach the holiday season, everyone starts asking, “What do you want for Christmas this year?” And every year, it gets harder and harder to think of a simple, understandable response.
When I tell someone I have anxiety, they automatically default to gifts of lavender candles, essential oils, and tea. While it’s a nice gesture and at times can be thoughtful, it doesn’t always feel authentic because it’s assumed that such items are a cure for all problems. They aren’t really taking the time to understand that someone with anxiety is just another person, but with a little more complexity.
An Anxiety Holiday Wish List:
A family that is understanding and supportive.
A day absent of unwanted advice or questions.
Relief from the constant worry and intrusive thoughts.
Strength to tell those negative thoughts that they are wrong.
Comforting hugs and shared laughter.
A day of actual rest.
Sometimes it can feel difficult to give an intangible gift. But it is possible! If you’re racking your brain for a thoughtful gift to give someone living with a mental illness, here are some ideas:
Quality Time Gifts
Mental illness can make it difficult to have happy and sustainable relationships. Spending time together may mean more than anything that comes inside a wrapped package.
Weekend Getaway
Take your loved one somewhere they’ve never been before! If you’re navigating the holidays on a tight budget, remember that all you need is a little creativity. Travel locally, explore the sights, and try some new activities.
A Special Meal
This can be anything from going to a favorite restaurant to cooking a nice meal at home. Consider a surprise picnic with close friends and yummy snacks! The possibilities are endless.
Reflection Cards
Don’t know how to open up? Spark meaningful conversations with the help of Reflection Cards! These cards are surprisingly fun and really deepen relationships with friends and family. Other great conversational card packs to consider are Icebreaker: Deeper Talk and Tabletopics.
Self-Care Gifts
When someone struggles with a mental illness, managing self-care can decline or potentially be forgotten. A thoughtful wellness gift shows that you truly care.
Journal
Find a journal with a design your giftee would love. For a personal touch, add some positive notes and fond memories on random pages.
Comforting Blanket
A weighted blanket or just a plain big, fluffy one! Sensory gifts are great for added comfort when trying to unwind both physically and mentally.
Home Spa Day
Who doesn’t love a good face mask? While candle lit bubble baths might not be for everyone, a simple face mask is always fun especially if you just want to relax in bed.
Fitbit Inspire HR
The perfect solution for tracking heart rate during moments of unease. Connect to the FitBit app so you can also view your sleep patterns, track your mindfulness, and log period trends. The Inspire HR provides all essential tracking features if you’re not looking for detailed fitness analytics.
Advocacy
Give the gift of advocacy! There is still such a huge stigma surrounding mental illness, and so many layers of mental health are often overlooked or even romanticized. Let your giftee know that they are seen, heard, and valid with these cute enamel pins. With every purchase of a pin, 10% of the proceeds are donated to NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
Personal or Handmade Gifts
We all want to feel special and loved. Those struggling with mental illnesses can often experience discomfort regarding their self-esteem and relationships. Small, heartfelt gifts are a great reminder to show that you acknowledge who they are.
As this varies from person to person, the gift will have to come from your heart and the special connection you have with that individual!
However, here are some easy ideas:
A detailed, handwritten note or card expressing your gratitude to your loved one.
A mug filled with their absolute favorite chocolates, baked goods, or coffee. Or all three!
For those who love their home state or are missing home: Homesick Scented Candle
Matching trinkets such as friendship bracelets, key chains, or pins.
Donation to their favorite charity under their name.
Gifting doesn’t have to be stressful! What’s truly important is the thought you put into it for that special person. I hope you’ve found some inspiration from this article. Happy Holidays!