Give the Gift of Mental Health: 8 Ideas for Self-Care & Stress Relief
The holidays are just around the corner, and many of us are struggling to come up with gift ideas our friends and family will love. With so many people dealing with stress and anxiety these days, the best gift you can give this season is the gift of mental health.
With this in mind, here are our favorite thoughtful, practical and creative gifts ideas for loved ones who may be struggling with stress or anxiety:
1. Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets have been shown to decrease a person’s anxiety. The weight of the blanket applies gentle pressure to the body, eliciting the same response as a hug or cuddle. These blankets are also great for helping people with sleep issues.
2. Art Supplies
Some people, adults and children alike, have a hard time expressing how they feel through language. But expression through art helps people get their feelings out.
Why not head to your local craft store and get your loved one something to help them tap into their creative side. It could be a paint set, adult coloring book, or modeling clay. Creating art has a meditative and calming effect as well.
3. Journal
Some people need to write things down in order to process them. You can find really nice journals for under $20 for that person in your life who is introspective and needs to get those thoughts, feelings and ideas onto paper.
4. Meditation & Mindfulness Subscription
Practicing mindfulness and meditation has been shown to provide mental, physical and emotional benefits. But it can be hard to get started with the practice. Help your loved one find Zen and calm with a subscription to a meditation and mindfulness app.
5. Aromatherapy & Relaxation
Achieve ultimate relaxation from every day stress with items like essential oils, scent diffusers, herbal teas, salt lamps, skin care and beauty products. Consider products with calming and therapeutic benefits such as lavender, citrus and chamomile.
6. Sensory & Stress Relief Tools
There is a wide array of products on the market today designed to help cope with stress, including fidget toys, sensory rings, stress balls and more. These objects can bring satisfaction, stimulation and help regulate strong emotions and restore a sense of calm.
7. A Fun Activity
Sometimes an experience can be the most memorable gift. Treat a loved one to a new experience or an activity they love such as a spa day, a movie, concert tickets or a day out. This may give them the opportunity to take a break from the daily grind and make time for themselves.
8. Mental Health Books
There are many wonderful mental health books out there, including research backed self-help and inspirational stories of people overcoming difficulties. One book I recommend is called Mind Over Mind, which uses proven Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) exercises to shift an individual’s feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
If you or your loved one would like to explore CBT with a licensed therapist, please reach out to us. Sometimes talking to someone can really make all the difference.
Contact our office to schedule an appointment.