Mental Health Gifts for the Holidays
The holidays are right around the corner, and hopefully you’re making your shopping list and checking it twice. Check out this list of gift ideas to help nourish your loved one’s mental health.
Weighted blanket They can help reduce symptoms of sleep disorders, anxiety, ADHD, depression, and trauma, and can decrease stress and pain. A soothing gift indeed!
Light therapy box Do your research on these first to ensure they’re a good fit! A light therapy box can help decrease symptoms of depression and increase energy, especially during the colder months.
Self-care gift card Massage, floatation therapy, spa day, manicure/pedicure, sauna… it’s hard to go wrong with this type of pampering.
Coloring books and pencils/pens Adult coloring books have significantly increased in popularity over the past several years, and there’s good reason why: many people believe that coloring helps relax the mind and decrease depressive and anxious symptoms. Plus, they make a great gift option because you’re certain to find one to match your gift recipient’s interests! Some of my favorite coloring book themes have been otters, Harry Potter, and Supernatural.
Subscription or gift card for a meditation app or yoga class The benefits of meditation and yoga are extensive. I frequently hear from people that they know they should practice both more often, so give somebody some inducement for positive habits.
Donation to a mental health cause in someone’s honor This helps you as the gift giver feel good too! My personal recommendations include The Trevor Project, Darkness to Light, and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Happy holidays, and happy shopping!
