Choosing a Gift for Anxious Relatives

Posted by Arlin on October 30th, 2019

Do you have an anxious relative in your life? If so, you may be wondering what to get them for birthdays and other holidays. While you never want to single out someone with anxiety, it's also helpful to choose a gift that reflects you understand how they feel. Below are some good choices.

Gifts that Help Them Relax

A good choice is always a gift that makes them instantly think of the relaxation it will bring. Think things like organic tea, a lavender heat wrap, scented candles, or bath bombs. If you want to spend a little more you could even splurge on them and get a weighted blanket. I keep a bottle of lavender spray by my bed, and anybody who buys me more automatically goes in my good books.

Self-Help Books

While I would not suggest choosing a book that directly singles out their anxiety (unless you know them really well and they've hinted it's something they would like), general self-improvement books are a good gift. And if you're stuck on which one to choose, you could instead get them a membership to an audiobook service. My favorite is Scribd, which gives you unlimited access to audiobooks each month. I've literally got 10 books on the go right now.

Therapy (Yes, Therapy)

Oh dear, can you actually get someone therapy as a gift? Well, yes you can if it's done the right away. Imagine that close relative who you know needs the help, can't afford it, or will never take the leap themselves. Online therapy has made access to a therapist easier and more affordable. And if you're worried they won't follow through, make the offer and just see how it goes. (Don't worry, it's not as weird as it seems; I did a free one-week trial, and my therapist was awesome).

Jewelry

For the ladies, consider some sort of anxiety-reducing jewelry like a fidget ring or essential oil necklace. You could also get a statement piece about mental health (such as a serotonin necklace). I know of a blogger who won't take off her essential oil necklace, she likes it so much.

Journaling Supplies

Journaling is good for your mental health, and anxiety is no exception. Consider buying the person with anxiety a nice journal or one that has pre-printed prompts to help them better manage their mental health. Or you could go my route, and buy the nicest one you can find at the dollar store (you'd be surprised how nice!).

Health Products

Some ideas related to their health might include a fitness tracker, nice water bottle, or ashwagandha supplement. Again, you'll need to gauge how well you know the person and if the gift fits. You could even consider a subscription box from a place like Crate Joy so they get something new every month. Anyone who buys me a subscription box gets in my good books too.

T-Shirt

If the person has a sense of humor, consider getting a t-shirt with a funny saying like "Anxiety is my Cardio" or "Let That Sh*t Go." For the right person, the right shirt is sure to be a hit. (Hint: I need that last shirt, if you're reading this).

Want more ideas? Read my post "Gifts for People with Anxiety" for tips on specific gifts to buy in each of these categories.