Most of us have experienced periods of loneliness, and rising above the feelings of isolation can be challenging. It can be equally painful to watch a close friend or loved one struggling to keep their chin up, and we sometimes feel helpless in our attempts to brighten their spirits.
While there is no replacement for the human connection of a good chat with family or a satisfying phone call with a best friend, sometimes a thoughtful, well-timed gift can be just the kind of mood boost we all need from time to time. This list features seven go-to ideas and gifts for a friend who’s down in the dumps and in need of a pick-me-up.
- Send Flowers
You don’t have to wait until Mother’s Day to send flowers to someone you care about. Flowers are a universally loved gift that can brighten anyone’s day. In the last several years, it’s become easier to give the gift of flowers with national delivery services that deliver all over the country.
H. Bloom offers same-day delivery of classic rose bouquets, a sunny centerpiece, or their specialty arrangement of the month. Flower availability varies depending on your location, so if you’re set on a particular arrangement, check in with an H. Bloom representative to ensure that you’re getting what you want for your friend.
If you live in the same community, you can stop in with a cheery arrangement in a charming artisan vase or a refreshing, low-maintenance potted succulent.
- Throw a Virtual Cocktail Party
One of the best aspects of modern life is the ease with which we can connect with others across vast distances. Whether you want to host a virtual get-together with the girls or catch up with your college roommate on the other side of the country, Facetime, Zoom, and other virtual meeting apps are a great option. To liven things up, you can send an advance celebratory bottle of wine or a chic cocktail shaker for your friend to enjoy while you catch up.
- Let the Sun In
Research shows that vitamin D provided by exposure to sunlight is integral to mental health. Many people suffer from seasonal depression in the fall and winter months when sunshine is at its lowest. If your friend is nearby, suggest a refreshing walk on the beach or an invigorating hike through a local park. The fresh air, exercise, and sun are natural pick-me-ups that can alter brain chemistry and boost spirits.
If you’re far away, help your friend embrace the light with a crystal suncatcher to serve as a daily reminder of the sun’s healing power, or give them a comfy, oversized beach towel to inspire some casual sun therapy in their yard.
- Give a “Happy Box”
Monthly subscription box services have become increasingly popular. However, if you can’t commit to the expense of a full year of deliveries, consider a one-time customized “Happy Box” that’s filled with fun trinkets like a bohemian bandeau and a wishing bracelet. There are several theme options, including “Love,” “Fearlessness,” and “Wisdom,” so you can choose the box that best represents what your friend needs.
- Send a Letter or Card via Snail Mail
There’s nothing quite like getting a handwritten letter or card to make you feel loved. It’s one of the most thoughtful gifts you can receive. But it’s not only the recipient who enjoys your letters; writing them is a fun, relaxing activity that gives you a moment to reflect on your friendship.
Letter writing also gives you a chance to use some lovely stationery. Receiving a beautiful greeting card with an uplifting quote is bound to put a smile on your friend’s face and will brighten up their home.
If you prefer something original, little envelope letters are an excellent choice. This cute, colorful letter-writing set incorporates your message into the envelope itself. It comes with a collection of adorable stickers with positive messages that will let your friend know they are loved.
- Celebrate Spiritual Healing
Sometimes we all need to be encouraged to take some time for self-care and reflection, especially when we find ourselves with feelings of loneliness or sadness. Encouraging your friend to do this is a wonderful way to let them know that you care.
Meditation can be of great comfort during turbulent times and, if your friend is interested in trying it, you could give them a subscription to a meditation app or series of yoga classes. Or, why not send them a little something that might inspire them to focus on their own happiness and inner peace? Something as simple as a calming candle, a journal, or a collection of crystals could help create a positive space for your friend to relax.
- Make Free Time Fun
When you’re feeling lonely, the busy working week can be an escape from your problems, and the thought of a long weekend home alone can be a real downer. If your friend is going through a rough period, try to make time to do special things with them, whether it’s heading to your favorite coffee shop, getting into nature, or watching a movie together on the couch.
Unfortunately, it’s not always possible for us to be together in person, but you can still contribute to improving your friend’s free time. A new hobby or craft can be a relaxing and productive way to spend time. Creative pursuits make you feel good about yourself in a way that many other passive activities don’t. Why not get your friend a fun tie-dye kit or a bracelet-making set? They might even discover a new talent.
The Takeaway
None of us like to think of our friends feeling lonely, and we’ll do anything to cheer them up. It might feel like a daunting task, but you’d be amazed at how powerful small, thoughtful acts or gifts can be. It’s all about letting your friend know you care and that you’ll always be there for them.