Give the Gift of Mental Health: 5 Present Ideas

With the holidays approaching, many of us are looking for the perfect gifts to show our friends and family how much we care. In a world where stress and anxiety seem to be increasingly prevalent, finding meaningful and thoughtful gifts can be a challenge. According to the American Psychological Association (2020), the ongoing pandemic, economic uncertainties, and global tensions have left many people feeling overwhelmed and anxious. What better way to show you care than by giving a gift that promotes mental health and well-being?

In this article, we’ll explore several gift ideas that focus on reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation, and encouraging mindfulness.

1. Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets have gained popularity in recent years for their calming effects. These blankets apply gentle, even pressure across the body, a technique known as "deep pressure stimulation." This type of pressure has been shown to reduce anxiety and stress by mimicking the sensation of being hugged or held. Research by Ackerley et al. (2015) found that weighted blankets can increase serotonin and melatonin levels while decreasing cortisol, the stress hormone. This leads to feelings of relaxation and improved sleep quality.

Weighted blankets are especially beneficial for those who struggle with sleep issues, which are often exacerbated by anxiety. If your loved one has trouble falling or staying asleep, a weighted blanket may be the perfect gift to help them find a restful night’s sleep.

2. Art Supplies

Creative expression can be a powerful way to manage stress and anxiety, especially for those who have difficulty expressing their emotions verbally. Art therapy has long been recognized as a therapeutic tool for emotional healing. According to Malchiodi (2012), engaging in art-making activities can reduce stress, improve mood, and provide a sense of accomplishment.

Consider gifting your loved one a set of art supplies to help them tap into their creative side. Whether it’s a paint set, adult coloring book, or modeling clay, engaging in art has a meditative quality that allows individuals to focus their minds and channel their emotions in a productive way. The process of creating something unique can provide a sense of control and relief from overwhelming feelings.

3. Journal

For many people, writing is an essential tool for processing emotions and thoughts. Journaling allows individuals to express their innermost feelings in a safe, private space. Studies have shown that expressive writing can lead to improvements in mental health, including reduced stress, improved mood, and better coping mechanisms (Pennebaker & Smyth, 2016).

A high-quality journal makes a thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys reflecting on their experiences or needs a healthy outlet for their thoughts. You might even consider pairing the journal with a nice pen or a book of journaling prompts to inspire your loved one to begin their writing journey.

4. Meditation and Mindfulness Subscription

Mindfulness and meditation practices have been scientifically proven to offer significant mental, physical, and emotional benefits. Regular meditation can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, lower blood pressure, and improve sleep quality (Goyal et al., 2014). However, starting a meditation practice can be daunting for beginners.

Gifting a subscription to a meditation or mindfulness app is a wonderful way to encourage your loved one to begin or continue their mindfulness journey. Apps such as Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer provide guided meditations, breathing exercises, and relaxation techniques that can help reduce stress and promote mental clarity. This gift can serve as a daily reminder for your loved one to take a moment for themselves amidst the chaos of daily life.

5. Books on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a widely-used, evidence-based therapeutic approach that helps individuals change negative thought patterns and behaviors. According to Hofmann et al. (2012), CBT has been shown to be effective in treating anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues. While working with a licensed therapist is ideal, many people can benefit from self-help books that teach the fundamentals of CBT.

One highly recommended book is Mind Over Mood by Greenberger and Padesky (2016), which guides readers through various CBT exercises designed to help them shift their thoughts and behaviors in a positive direction. This book can be a helpful resource for anyone looking to improve their mental health through practical, actionable techniques.

Giving the Gift of Mental Health

The holidays can be a stressful time for many, and finding a gift that truly shows you care can feel overwhelming. However, by focusing on gifts that promote mental health and well-being, you’re giving more than just a material item—you’re giving the gift of peace, relaxation, and emotional support. Whether it’s a weighted blanket, art supplies, a journal, or a subscription to a mindfulness app, these thoughtful gifts can make a significant impact on your loved one’s mental health.

Additionally, if you or someone you know is struggling with stress or anxiety and would like to explore Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with a licensed therapist, reaching out for professional help can be a transformative step. Therapy provides a safe space to work through emotions and develop coping strategies, and it can make all the difference in managing mental health challenges.

References

Ackerley, R., Badre, G., & Olausson, H. (2015). Positive effects of a weighted blanket on insomnia. Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders, 2(3), 1022.

American Psychological Association. (2020). Stress in America 2020: A national mental health crisis. American Psychological Association. https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2020/report-october

Goyal, M., Singh, S., Sibinga, E. M. S., Gould, N. F., Rowland-Seymour, A., Sharma, R., Berger, Z., Sleicher, D., Maron, D. D., Shihab, H. M., Ranasinghe, P. D., Linn, S., Saha, S., Bass, E. B., & Haythornthwaite, J. A. (2014). Meditation programs for psychological stress and well-being: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Internal Medicine, 174(3), 357-368.

Greenberger, D., & Padesky, C. A. (2016). Mind over mood: Change how you feel by changing the way you think (2nd ed.). Guilford Publications.

Hofmann, S. G., Asnaani, A., Vonk, I. J., Sawyer, A. T., & Fang, A. (2012). The efficacy of cognitive behavioral therapy: A review of meta-analyses. Cognitive Therapy and Research, 36(5), 427-440.

Malchiodi, C. A. (2012). Art therapy and health care. Guilford Publications.

Pennebaker, J. W., & Smyth, J. M. (2016). Opening up by writing it down: How expressive writing improves health and eases emotional pain (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.