With the holidays just around the corner, Choosing Therapy is here to help you find gifts for the people you love in your life. Whether your loved one is experiencing stress or anxiety or you just want to show them you’re thinking of their mental health, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Gifts for Anxiety
Suitable gifts for someone with anxiety include weighted blankets, essential oils, art supplies, and journals. All of these gifts have qualities that can help soothe anxious feelings.
1. Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are shown to reduce anxiety as the weight of the blanket applies pressure to the body as human contact would (like a hug or a cuddle), which can help one’s body relax. It has also improved sleep, by making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.” –Gabrielle Schreyer-Hoffman, PhD
“Weighted blankets offer the soothing comfort of feeling embraced. They are helpful for restless or anxious sleepers. Do some research on the weight, fabrics, and price before purchasing. This is the best gift I have given my teenage granddaughter! Two top websites for reviews are: CNN Underscore’s review of 11 most popular weighted blankets and Sleep Foundation. Org.” – Emma Jane Watson, M.Ed., MSW, LICSW
2. Essential Oils
“I love using essential oils to help my own feelings of anxiety and gives me the boost of confidence I need. Revive is a great brand that is affordable and high-grade. It’s important to make sure you understand the proper use of essential oils, but these starter kits are designed to help you introduce you or someone else!” – Lena Suarez-Angelino, LCSW
“Items infused with essential oils, especially lavender, are designed to aid in sleep and relaxation which reduces stress and anxiety. These items vary in price and can fit into most budgets. These include lavender essential oil, lavender pillow mist, or lavender body lotion.” – Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
3. Acts of Service
“Many who struggle with depression and anxiety may find seemingly simple tasks daunting. So offering to come clean, hire a cleaning service, deliver groceries, walk the dog, take the kids out for a movie and ice cream, take the friend out to the movies and get them ice cream, and so on are all very helpful gifts that go beyond the tangible.” – Alex Sullivan, LCSW
4. Art Supplies
“Artistic expression is a beautiful way for those of all ages to express feelings while reducing stress and anxiety. Craft stores are great places to purchase specific art supplies for friends and family. Gift cards are thoughtful gifts to encourage hobbies and talents in those we care about while allowing them to choose the specific tools they desire or need. You are able to spend an amount that is within your holiday spending budget as well.” – Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
“Creative activities like art (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpting) or coloring can be meditative and calming. They can help to calm the mind and body, and thereby reduce stress.” – Shirley Porter, RP, RSW, CCC
5. Journal
“Journaling can be an effective way to track and manage emotions such as anxiety. Gifting a nice journal (under $20) to a friend, colleague or family member is a thoughtful and inexpensive way to make a positive impact on someone.” – Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
“Gather a motivational guided journal such as The 5-Minute Gratitude Journal: Give Thanks, Practice Positivity, Find Joy or A Year of Zen: A 52-Week Guided Journal, a collection of fun pens, a mug that suits the personality of your recipient, a collection of tea bags, and a scented candle and lighter, and place everything in an attractive basket to serve as a convenient storage kit. Your loved one will be ready to own their new year.” –Tanya Peterson, NCC
6. Sensory Rings / Anxiety Rings
These excellent anxiety relievers have many names. I typically use the “spikey” ones that are rigid metal. They can be twisted, rolled between the fingers, or worn. They activate the nerve endings and pressure points in the fingers. Most of the time, kids and adults forget they are fidgeting with them and have them. They are small and discreet so that schools will not complain about them. However, the best part is you can buy a 10-pack of spiky rings on amazon (under $10). They do also sell nice/pretty-looking anxiety rings that spin. – Grichell Pelizzari, LMFT at Thriveworks
“Many people find themselves fidgeting with whatever they can find, but a specific fidget ring (about $10) can really help calm anxiety and other mental health challenges.” – Lily Thrope, LCSW, PLLC
7. Joovv Red Light
“The Joovv red light is a big ticket item but will be massively beneficial for self-care. This device has SO many health benefits but most importantly, it helps with inflammation, which we know is amped up when we are under stress.” – Elyse D. Schunkewitz, LCSW
Mental Health Books
Books are always a great gift! These books recommended by licensed mental health professionals are bound to help anyone in your life understand and tackle whatever mental health issues they may be dealing with. You can also check out our suggestions for books for depression, books for anxiety, books on mindfulness, and motivational books.
8. Mind Over Mind
“For those in your life who are dealing with relationship issues, depression or anxiety, and like workbooks, Mind Over Mind uses proven Cognitive Behavioral exercises to shift thoughts, feelings, and behaviors into a more helpful and positive direction.” – Shirley Porter, RP, RSW, CCC
9. How to Survive the Loss of a Love
“The book How to Survive the Loss of a Love (for grieving a death or breakup) is my favorite practical and easy to read book that has excellent information and strategies to help someone understand and cope with grief. It can be a source of hope and compassion.” – Shirley Porter, RP, RSW, CCC
10. Let Go Of Emotional Overeating and Love Your Food: A Five Point Plan for Success
“This book is an enjoyment-oriented guide to better health and fitness written by a Columbia University trained licensed psychotherapist who is also a former emotional overeater. Give the gift of healthy habits so pleasurable and practical they’ll last forever! The book has received excellent reviews from Publishers Weekly, BookList, and more.” – Arlene B. Englander, LCSW, MBA
11. Advocacy Books
“Give a book or item that addresses mental health and supports the work of advocates in the field; for example, Your Wound / My Garden by Alok Menon or Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawaab.” – Jackie Tassiello MPS, ATR-BC, LCAT, ATCS, Co-founder of Soulutions Therapy
12. Wellness Books
“Books about wellness such as Pause, Breathe Smile: Awakening Mindfulness when Meditation Is Not Enough; Mindfulness for Beginners; and Mindful Eating on the Go: Practices for Eating with Awareness, Wherever You Are can inspire your loved one to live their best year yet in 2021 and beyond.“ – Tanya Peterson, NCC
Mental Health Gifts for Moms
Let’s face it: Moms need gifts that promote mental health and self-care more than anyone. Here are some options for mental health gifts for moms:
13. Night at a Hotel
“Help mom relax and practice some self-care by gifting her a night in a fancy hotel all to herself. This gift isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for the perfect gift for a mom who is always too busy to do anything nice for herself, this is the perfect excuse to give her some peace and quiet our of the house. If you have kids, offer to take care of them until she gets back.” – Jeni Woodfin, LMFT
14. Meditation Course
“Guided meditation is an excellent form of relaxation and can be valuable when it comes to managing stress. Consider signing your mother up for a meditation course – she can practice meditating at home and learn important techniques to aid her in achieving inner peace.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
15. Self-Care Kit
“A gratitude journal, aromatherapy personal items such as a candle, scrub, and essential oil, along with their favorite drink of choice. Now you have helped this wonderful parent create a self-care ritual that can indulge the different senses and provide her with a moment in time (as much or as little as possible) to halt time and focus on herself. Other ideas can be a wonderful gift can include a wonderful coupon book that allows this person time to step away for some quiet time, a class pass to their favorite gym, a pass to a massage, and a food meal prep kit.” – Laura Garcia, LMFT
16. Relaxation Playlist
“This can be anything from instrumental music to calming nature sounds. Creating a playlist specifically for your mother to listen to when she needs some quiet time is sure to lift her spirits and bring her peace of mind.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
17. Affirmation Cards
“These are great for anyone and you can find unique styles depending on the person. For example, some fun women’s empowerment cards for the strong women in your life. These are great for self-care because they are quick! People can hang them on their computers or mirrors and have positive reminders that can lift spirits.” – Alicia Johnson, M.S., LMFT
Mental Health Gifts for Dads
Dads need support for their mental health, too. Whether your dad enjoys time outdoors or prefers to spend his time around the house, there are ways to make sure the fathers in your life feel cared for.
18. Gift Card for a Round of Golf
“Fathers who love golfing will appreciate the chance to get out on the course and relieve some stress.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
19. Fitness Tracker
“Dads might appreciate something more active, such as a fitness tracker, to help them get motivated to be more physically active. Whether it’s hiking, biking, or just going for a walk with the kids, these devices can help you stay focused on your wellness goals and provide you with helpful insights about your daily activity.” – Candace Kotkin-De Carvalho, LSW, LCADC, CCS, CCTP
20. Outdoor Camping Trip
“Nature has a wonderful calming effect on people. A camping trip can provide a great opportunity for your father to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and spend some quality time with himself.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
21. Beard Grooming Kit
“If you’re looking for a great gift for a dad, try a beard grooming kit. Bearded dads love to care for their facial hair. A kit containing a nice comb and some oils and lotions is the perfect self-care gift for that scruffy-looking dad.” – Jeni Woodfin, LMFT
22. Movie Night Package
“Taking some time out to watch a good film is an excellent way to relax. Create a special movie night package by including snacks, drinks, and a rented movie.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Mental Health Gifts for Students
Students are constantly dealing with stress-inducing tests and assignments, so getting the student in your life gifts that benefit their mental health is a great idea.
23. Relaxation Kit
“Assemble a relaxation kit with items such as soothing teas, essential oils, and candles. This is a great way to show your student that you care about their wellbeing and encourage them to take some time out for themselves.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
24. Sleep Mask
“Sleep is crucial for students who need to focus on their studies and maintain healthy mental wellbeing. Get them a comfortable sleep mask that will help them get the restful sleep they deserve.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
25. Fun Activity
“Students are notoriously short on cash, so they never have the funds to do anything exciting. Gift your student something fun to do, like tickets to a concert or a sporting event. Even better, get them two tickets so they can bring a date or friend!” – Jeni Woodfin, LMFT
26. Journal
“Writing is a great way to process emotions, clear one’s head, and express creativity. Consider gifting your student a special journal they can use whenever they feel overwhelmed.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Subscriptions
Subscription to a service is the gift that keeps on giving! Subscriptions to these mental health sites and apps will keep your loved one feeling mentally well for months after the holiday season has come to a close.
27. Meditation & Mindfulness Subscription
“Meditation and mindfulness apps can make a good gift. The practice of meditation and mindfulness can help reduce anxiety, increase acceptance of one’s experience physically and emotionally as well as improve one’s physical, mental and emotional health.” –Gabrielle Schreyer-Hoffman, PhD
28. Mindful.org Subscription
“For less than $30, you can give an adult in your life a yearly subscription to the print magazine Mindful as well as full access to Mindful.org with its wealth of articles, meditations, and other resources for a mindful life. Mindful.org has a wealth of information for people of all ages and includes information about parenting and kids, too.” – Tanya Peterson, NCC
29. Subscription to Calm
“I always used the free version of Calm until I was granted a free year for being a healthcare provider. I will definitely be renewing my subscription for myself! Calm offers so much variety from guided meditation, stories, and music. Calm is a great way to show someone that you love that you are there to support them and work on ways to manage anxiety.” – Lena Suarez-Angelino, LCSW
30. Other Wellbeing App Subscriptions
“Apps such as Calm, Happify, Headspace, and Insight Timer provide access to seemingly endless libraries of meditations, courses, music, and more to provide inspiration for embracing the day and sleeping well during the night. These apps have tracks and programs for all ages, including kids. Subscription prices vary, and most offer options to pay monthly, often around $15 per month, or yearly, often around $100 per year paid upfront.” –Tanya Peterson, NCC
31. Subscription to an Online Fitness Program
“Encourage your loved one to move their body and get some endorphins with a subscription to a home fitness program. While some programs can be quite expensive, options like Beachbody, FitFusion, Yoga Download, Nike Training Club, and Crunch Live are all less than $150 for a year.” – Benjamin Troy, MD
32. Subscription for Music Lessons
“One of the best mental health gifts you can give is a package of music lessons. Giving yourself, your spouse, or your friend a gift of five or six music or voice lessons can allow them to have a positive experience and one that helps them feel confident about themselves while learning something new. Working with a music teacher can provide them a creative and expressive space to release negative moods and feel present. Music lessons might not be seen as a traditional mental health gift, but singing, playing piano, or playing cello all improve mental health and release serotonin in your brain almost immediately.
Music allows you to use a different part of your brain. Singing, for instance, immediately calms your vagus nerve, releases calming hormones into your bloodstream, and lowers anxiety. Giving six voice lessons can be a great way to help your friend or your partner improve their mental health by creating a new routine, having purpose in life, and having a responsibility so to speak to attend the lesson. They can build a positive relationship with her music teacher and have a positive role model to look up to.” – Katie Ziskind, LMFT, owner of Wisdom Within Counselling
33. Meal Box Subscriptions
“Gift subscription to meal delivery services such as HelloFresh, Blue Apron, etc. Often when struggling with mental health, appetite and taking care of self goes out the window.” – Laura Rippeon, LCSW
34. Subscription to Spotify, Apple Music, Etc.
“Music can boost your mood and reduce stress. Most audio streaming services also include podcasts, and there are many mental health podcasts that can be helpful for learning more or getting encouragement.” – Melissa Boudin, PsyD
35. Online Art Class Subscription
“Art is a wonderful form of expression and can help relieve stress. Sign your loved one up for an online art class so they have access to creative resources at all times.” – Heather Wilson LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Gift Cards & Experiences
When you’re not sure what gift might be the perfect fit, gift cards are always a safe option. Personalizing the gift card to specifically help someone relax and relieve stress makes it even better.
36. Gift Card for a Massage
“The gift of massage and self-care is a great way to assist a loved one dealing with anxiety while giving them a start with some pampering at the holidays. Massage helps to alleviate muscle tension and aides in relaxation. Whether you combine a massage gift card with a self-care basket – including items like a scented eye mask (about $20) or heating pad (under $15) – or choose just one of these thoughtful gifts, they are sure to help relax your friend or family member.” –Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
37. Gift Card for a Sporting Goods Store
“Exercise is a great stress reliever and wonderful way to aid in sleep. A gift card to a sporting goods store is a thoughtful way to let the man or woman in your life pick out that new pair of hiking boots they’ve had their eyes on or pick up equipment for a new hobby they want to start in the new year. Gifts cards are a fabulous way to show someone you are thinking of them while fitting a gift into any budget.” – Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
38. A Mental-Health-Based Retreat
“There are many retreats that offer self-care services including yoga, mindfulness, healthy eating, massage, psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, and more. You can even find retreats near you on Airbnb.” – Avigail Lev, PsyD
39. Concert Tickets or Another Event That Interests Them
“Focusing on experiences versus trinkets is the way to go. Schedule a concert or a social event if you know that they’d love to get out more and if that helps them keep their spirits and mental health uplifted.” – Allison Chawla, Licensed Clinical Psychotherapist & certified life coach
Mental Health Gifts for Employees
If you’re an employer or manager looking to show your employees that you care about their whole selves, consider a gift that will boost their mental and physical wellness.
40. Ergonomic Chair
“Comfort is key when it comes to an employee’s productivity and health. Get your employee an ergonomic office chair that supports their back, neck and arms.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
41. An Extra Day Off
“If you want to reward your employees for a job well done and show them that you care about their self-care, try gifting them an extra day off. You don’t even need to order them anything, just assign them an extra day off in your HR system and let them know they can redeem it any time they like this year.” – Jeni Woodfin, LMFT
42. Noise Cancelling Headphones
“Noise in the office can make it difficult for employees to concentrate on their tasks. Investing in noise-cancelling headphones is an excellent way to give them the peace they need.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
43. Meditation App Subscription
“Meditation can help employees clear their heads and refocus on work when needed. Sign them up for a meditation app that they can use whenever they have time in the day.” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
Gifts for Stress
Things like self-massagers, candles, kinetic sand, and zen gardens are great gifts that will help someone combat their stress in a practical way.
44. Healing Stone Starter Set
“Stone sets like this one (about $30) can be a really helpful tool for managing stress and emotions. I like that they are colorful and tangible. There is a ton to learn about stone healing.” – Lily Thrope, LCSW, PLLC
45. Self-Massagers
“Self-massagers have come a long way in recent years and are the perfect gift idea to help friends and family de-stress. At a time where it may not be safe to go to the spa, bring the relaxation home. If your gift recipient is athletic, body knowledgeable and has some deep aches and pains to address, the high-end Hypervolt (under $200) is the way to go. This top of the line massage tool targets connective tissue through powerful vibration, reducing muscle stiffness and improving circulation.
A more affordable alternative is the Zyllion massager (under $100), which provides moderate kneading of the neck and upper back, where many of us carry our stress. With rolling massage nodes, built in heat and adjustable intensity, this basic massager is easy for any adult to operate and soothe sore muscles.
Non-mechanical massagers can even make great stocking stuffers for kids or adults, with an USAGA head scratcher/massager (under $10) or a Foot Massage Roller (about $20).” – Shirley Porter, RP, RSW, CCC
46. Stress Balls
Stress balls (under $15) make a great stocking stuffer or an inexpensive gift for a colleague, friend or family member. They are good for relieving stress and anxiety in an easy to use manner for people of all ages. They release muscle tension, distract from stressful or anxious thoughts, and enhance focus and concentration in some people.” –Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
47. Mindfulness Cards
“You could buy a deck of mindfulness cards like these (under $15), or make some yourself! Handcrafted decks can be especially meaningful due to the personal connection.” – Dr. Carla Marie Manly, Clinical Psychologist
48. Kinetic Sand & Sand Tray
“Playing with sand is a great mindfulness activity that engages the sense of touch and gives someone something to focus on other than stressful thoughts or situations—and it’s as great for adults as it is for kids. This Zen Box for Adults (under $30) is one of many great choices available for adults, and The One and Only! Kinetic Sand (under $20) is a fun option for kids.” – Tanya Peterson, NCC
49. Adult Coloring Book
“Coloring is a great way to release energy and help people calm down. Often in our chaotic, social media obsessed culture it’s hard to find times to just slow down and relax, but coloring can create that space. This mindfulness coloring book (about $10) would be a great option.” – Lily Thrope, LCSW, PLLC
50. Calm Strips
“Calm Strips (under $25) have been such a fun little addition to my therapy toolbox! I’ve given them to some of my clients that experience anxiety, as well as my own personal use! They come in all different patterns – so something great for everyone!” –Lena Suarez-Angelino, LCSW
51. Sound Machines
“Sound machines are a great gift for those who have disrupted sleep due to anxiety. They can calm and relax while assisting with sleep. There are many varieties on the market. HoMedicas white noise machine (under $20) is a good model at a reasonable price point.”-Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
52. Zen Garden
Using a zen garden (about $20) with people that have anxiety can be a great way to ease symptoms. I often feel that mindless manipulation of the sand can be very calming and allows you to focus on something other than your anxiety. – Lena Suarez-Angelino, LCSW
Self-Care Gifts
Let’s face it, it’s been a tough year. Treat your loved one to some goodies that will help them engage in some time to themselves to rest and recharge.
53. Self-Care Basket
“When it comes to reducing stress and anxiety, self-care is crucial. A thoughtfully designed self-care basket is sure to be appreciated by all on your holiday gift list. These can be given singularly or in conjunction with an appropriate gift card as well.” – Kerry Heath, LPC-S, NCC, CEDS-S
Include items like:
54. Stress-Relief Teas
“There is something so comforting about tea! You can cozy up with your favorite mug, a blanket and a good ‘ol cup of tea! Yogi stress-relieving teas (under $30) come in a variety of flavors, such as: Calming, Comforting Chamomile, Relaxed Mind, Kava Stress Relief, and Honey Lavender Stress Relief. This would be a great gift basket idea, with a combination of a mug and if you or your gift-receiver prefers loose teas, a tea infuser is a great add-on!” –Lena Suarez-Angelino, LCSW
55. Heating Pad
“Most people hold tension in their necks and shoulders, so a soothing heating pad can make a remarkable difference in how they feel overall. There are many choices that have moist or dry heat, and some that add massage. Sunbeam’s Heating Pad (about $50) is a good place to start.” – Emma Jane Watson, M.Ed., MSW, LICSW
56. Casper Glow Sleep Light
“The Casper Glow Sleep light makes a great gift for anyone who needs a good night’s rest. This light is great because it helps you wind down naturally using light. In the morning, the lamp softly lights up to mimic the sun. This is great for winter when there isn’t a lot of natural sunlight. Its a great way to keep your circadian rhythm on schedule.” – Dr. Jay Serle, LMFT, PhD
Free & DIY Mental Health Gifts
There are many gifts that show someone you care about them that don’t require spending much (or any!) money.
57. Chore Tickets
“If you don’t want to spend out of pocket on some self-care, there are still plenty of options. If you have a partner or spouse, you can gift them free chore tickets! Your loved one can redeem the chore tickets whenever they want to skip their turn on the dishes, the trash, or the laundry. This gives them more time to relax and unwind.” – Jeni Woodfin, LMFT
58. Write a List of Positive Affirmations
“Writing down positive affirmations is an effective way to boost self-esteem and motivate someone in need. Consider writing a few sweet words or phrases on paper, such as ‘You are worthy’ or ‘It gets better.’ The recipient will appreciate your effort in helping them stay positive!” – Heather Wilson, LCSW, LCADC, CCTP
59. Five Senses Gift Basket
“This is a great DIY option. A common coping tool/grounding technique is to use the 5 senses. You can gather items for each sense such as candles for smell, lotion for touch, mints for taste, earbuds for sound, and a nice picture for sight.” – Alicia Johnson, M.S., LMFT
60. DIY Therapeutic Play Dough
“You can use these instructions to create a therapeutic dough for those in your life who need more stress-reducers injected into their day. Add some lavender or another calming scent for an extra boost!” – Meagan Turner, MA, APC, NCC
61. A Handwritten Note of Appreciation
“Sometimes the best way to show someone you care is to give them a heartfelt note of gratitude. Write down multiple characteristics that you appreciate about them and why you’re happy they’re in your life.” – Melissa Boudin, PsyD
For Further Reading
- Review round-up of the best mental health apps
- See if Talkspace or BetterHelp is the better online therapy option for you
- Mental Health America
- National Alliance on Mental Health
- MentalHealth.gov
