If you know someone who's struggling with their mental health, grieving or feeling lonely, it can be hard to show that person how much you care.
Whether you have a vulnerable relative, a friend who's dealing with anxiety about this crazy world, someone close to you is grieving a loved one, or just going through a really tough time right now, we've rounded up the ultimate list of gifts to help put a smile on their face, even if just for a minute.
The winter can be a real challenge - with shorter days, we have less sunlight which can disrupt our sleep cycles. It's cold - the low temperatures make it tougher to stay active and the cold can also aggravate joint pain. Winter often keeps people indoors so you might not be seeing your friends or family as often as you'd like. What's more, we catch a lot more bugs around this time of year and a bout of flu can really get someone down in the dumps.
Another factor might be Christmas - it can be a triggering time of year for some, it's also an expensive time of year and the financial strain might be a real burden on someone's mental health. Christmas is also a triggering time of year when it comes to grief and loss. I've just written an article about kindness when you're grieving, but Christmas really is a tough time to navigate those feelings.
How we chose the best gifts to cheer someone up
- Personal experience: After the loss of my amazing mum in 2021 I was inundated with messages of support from family, friends and colleagues. I also got sent a lot of thoughtful gifts in the post, some of which I've highlighted below.
- Speedy delivery options: If someone is struggling with their mental health, you'll want to tell them you're thinking about them and you won't want to hang around 1-2 weeks for delivery for their gift to arrive.
- Affordable options: These gifts aren't about lavish declarations of wealth, they are often inexpensive ways of letting someone know you care. I've tried to keep it as budget-friendly as possible.
From 'thinking of you' gifts, to grief cards, birthday presents, 'miss you' gift ideas or something to cheer others up on those tough days, here are the best buys to help you feel connected to your loved ones.
1/16
Bloom & Wild Letterbox Flowers
Bloom&Wild Flowers
Who doesn’t love a bunch of beautiful flowers? Bloom & Wild’s are perfect for friends; they come in a box that can be posted through the letterbox, and the receiver gets to arrange them themselves. A perfect indoor activity. What's more, there's a category called 'arrives soonest' so you can get a bouquet to them as fast as possible.
2/16
M&S Brownie & Blondie Mini Selection Letterbox Gift
M&S Brownies & Blondies
You can't beat a home delivery of delicious brownies. All of M&S' brownie bases are made using 70% cocoa dark chocolate and the blondie bases are made using creamy white chocolate. They're made in small batches to create the home taste and texture. Perfect crisp crackly top, super fudgy centre, chewy or gooey in all the right places. Yum!
3/16
NEOM Organics Happiness Scented Candle
Neom Happiness Candle
Who knows what happiness really means, but we're all striving for it. This would make a perfect gift for anyone who's feeling a little unhappy right now. The 100% natural Happiness fragrance is made up of 10 essential oils including white neroli, woody and powdery mimosa and zingy lemon, and has been expertly blended to help boost your mood.
4/16
Wild Hope: Healing Words to Find Light on Dark Days
Wild Hope by Donna Ashworth
If you haven't discovered the life-changing words of Donna Ashworth yet, you must follow her on Instagram. It's not just me who's a fan! Davina McCall described this book as "beautiful and uplifting" and Fearne Cotton said it provides "soul-nurturing permission to relax, connect and be kinder to ourselves." Donna's bestselling books include Wild Hope, I Wish I Knew, Love, Loss, Life and To the Women. You can't go wrong with any of them.
5/16
Moonpig Sending You A BIG HUG To Brighten Your Day Card
Moonpig Card
If you can’t afford anything physical but still want them to know you’re thinking of them, how about sending a card in the post with a hug?
6/16
The Little Calm and Happy Company Quotes Jar
Happy Friendship Quotes Jar
This is such a sweet gift for someone. The directions are as follows: Each morning or afternoon at work your friend can pull out a little quote that not only brings them closer to you but helps them refocus, find calm, relieve stress, and enjoy the day that much more.
7/16
Name A Star Gift Experience
Name A Star Gift
If you're looking for a gift that's a little special, then treat someone to their very own star! The star can be given any name of your choice and it comes with a beginner’s guide to astronomy. The star can't be renamed so it's forever theirs.
8/16
Aura Carver WiFi Digital Picture Frame
Aura Digital Photo Frame
If you're looking for a gift with a lasting impact - look no further! Aura's Carver digital photo frame is ideal because you can share treasured memories with loved ones around the world on a stylish and easy-to-use device. You can also set up the frame for that person so they can immediately place it on a shelf and watch their happy memories on a slideshow. It's super easy to use - and it's controlled with a discreet touch bar that sits on top of the frame allowing friends and families to continue sharing their photos.
9/16
Lily & Roo Gold Personalised Family Calendar Necklace
Lily & Roo Family Calendar Necklace
This gold family calendar necklace is set with your choice of gemstones to mark the dates which will mean the most. Personalise your way and choose any name, dates and birthstones (up to four).
This one of a kind sentimental piece comes complete with a ‘find your meaning’ gemstone card and luxury gift box.
Ideal for a husband to gift his wife if she's feeling particularly down, and it's a great way to commemorate anniversaries, birthdays or special occasions.
10/16
ETSY No Words Just Hugs Candle Gift Set
Etsy Handmade Candle Gift Set
In one simple gift box, you can show your loved one how much you care and treat them to a lovely candle, complimented perfectly by the sweetest keepsake token.
11/16
Wonderbly Our Friendship Photo Book: Scrapbook Edition
Wonderbly Friendship Book
Looking for a unique gift that’ll show them how special they truly are? What better gift than a book... all about them and the friendship you have. This photo book can be curated and personalised to highlight all your funniest, tear-jerkiest, and favourite moments.
12/16
A Wish To Say Everything Will Be Alright Bracelet
NotOnTheHighStreet Wish Bracelet
Let them know that better and brighter days are on the horizon with wish bracelet. This is a thoughtful gift for a friend who's going through a tough time.
13/16
Letterfest Personalised Plant Pot
Letterfest Special Date Pot
If your friend enjoys gardening this would make a truly special gift - his or her own personalised plant pot. It can even be engraved with your date shown in vertical numbers with your name below.
14/16
Hotel Chocolat Taste: Everything Collection
Hotel Chocolat Chocolates
Chocolate is always a good idea. The H Box is a varied selection of Hotel Chocolat's most iconic chocolates. From patisserie-inspired Carrot Cake and Eton Mess to the brand's bestselling tipsy truffles brimming with premium alcohol, there’s something to suit every mood.
15/16
You Got This Gift Box
NOTHS You Got This Gift Box
The You Got This Box is a perfect gift if you want to cheer someone up and want to send someone a little pick me which is filled with positive vibes. There's even a pair of smiley socks inside.
16/16
It's A No From Me Hun
It's A No From Me Hun By Nikki J. McFarlane
If someone you know is feeling a little stressed and needs a lesson in how to tackle modern life, consider this your survival guide. Full of handy hints about how to get out of kids' parties, deal with men, avoid awkward conversations and more - this is the book for you. With funny stories it will make your friend laugh out loud.
