The holidays can be a stressful time for anyone, but especially for someone struggling with mental illness. We pulled from various lists and our own to create this list of gift ideas to foster MENTAL WELLNESS.
This doesn’t have to be just for the holidays. These ideas can be used year-round. The items listed are just a jumping off point. You can also consider items that the person likely wouldn’t buy for themselves, something to treat themselves.
Regardless of what you choose to give, whether to someone else or YOURSELF, MHAV wishes you all a safe and happy holiday!
Mental Wellness Holiday Gift Ideas
*Essential Oils (be sure to check for allergies) – lavender and bergamot help to promote relaxation
*Essential oil diffuser
*Lava rock bracelet
*Art supplies
*Adult coloring books
*Colored pencils
*Markers
*Model kit
*Paint-by-number kit
*Blankets – fleece, sherpa, and weighted
*Weighted neck pillow
*Writing supplies
*Journals
*Interesting pens/inks
*Bullet journals
*Journal prompt books
*Comfortable clothing – fuzzy socks, pajamas, and athleisure wear
*T-shirts with inspiring messages
*Cozy sweater
*A coupon for a free homemade meal
*Coupon for house cleaning/chores
*Letter or card with compliments or words of encouragement
*Have a meal delivered
*Gift card to a food delivery app
*Find out what charities/causes they support and make a donation in their name
Perform a random act of kindness
*Light therapy lamp (helps with Seasonal Affective Disorder)
*Himalayan salt lamp
*Tea – herbal, unique blends with chamomile and valerian
*Cocoa
*Chai
*Foot spa
*Massage chair (that sits in regular chair)
*Facial ice packs
*Warm compresses
*Books – coffee table books that provide a quick dose of humor, motivation, and/or distraction, body positivity books, art and photography books
*Noise cancelling earphones
*Fidget spinners
*Magnetic bead sculpture
*Stress putty
*Nee Doh
*CD/DVD’s – guided meditation, music, yoga, stand up comedy
*Scented candles (double check any allergies)
*Jigsaw puzzles
*Word search
*Sudoku
*Kindle reading device with gift card for books
*Stuffed animals or toys from a favorite book or movie
*Cards or wall art with positive affirmations *Model kit (cars, airplanes) *Legos – Architecture Series
