Buying a gift for anyone close needs careful thought, even more so when buying for someone with anxiety or depression, and if you can find a gift they will both absolutely love and is useful, even better.
Let this article be your guide to 10 awesome gift ideas for those in your life suffering from depression.
1. Wild Essentials Tree of Life Essential Oil Diffuser Necklace Gift Set
When medication and therapy do not quite cut it on the road to recovery from depression, some experts suggest alternative approaches. Research has shown that some people can augment their treatment with meditation, working out, listen to music, and aromatherapy.
The latter has been steadily gaining popularity among those who struggle with depression. However, this is usually done at home with scented candles, incense sticks, and essential oil diffusers. Meanwhile, with the Wild Essentials Tree of Life essential oil diffuser necklace, you can practically do it anywhere conveniently.
The design of the necklace is subtle yet stylish and will likely match whatever outfit you have if that’s your kind of thing. It is presented as a fashionable piece of jewellery crafted out of surgical-grade 316L stainless steel, which is hypoallergenic.
The chain measures 24 inches long, while the pendant opens up to hold the felt pads and fully closes securely with magnets. This set comes in a cool gift box that includes the pendant and chain along with four premium essential oils. You can choose between Lavender, Peppermint, Zen, and Inner Calm. Moreover, Wild Essentials even threw in six multicolor refill pads.
2. Verilux HappyLight Compact Light Therapy Lamp
You’ve probably heard of therapists talking about the benefits and effects of sunlight when it comes to our mood. While the process sounds simple enough, certain weather conditions, lack of windows, and other factors can limit our exposure to natural light.
Maybe Verliux saw that there is a potential market for alternative lighting sources that can have a positive effect on people. As the name suggests, the HappyLight Compact is a portable light source capable of up to 10,000 lux.
Having a reliable light source can reportedly help an individual in various ways. In fact, the HapplyLife Compact can be used to compensate for sunlight if the room does not have enough windows. Additionally, this makes it a handy go-to device during winter months when the sunshine can be limited at times.
The Verilux HappyLight Compact produces full-spectrum UV-free light and touts a combination of Optix Glare Control Lens and Flicker Elimination technology to prevent eye fatigue and strain even after prolonged usage. Let the light activate your body’s natural circadian rhythm to encourage sleep, induce relaxation, and get the boost of energy when you need it the most.
Whilst the HappyLight can aid in improving sleep quality, it should be combined with a decent mattress to ensure a good night’s sleep.
3. MUSE: The Brain Sensing Headband
If someone you know is suffering from depression, we should understand and do our best to help out in any way we can. As long as that person accepts the diagnosis and seeks professional help to treat and manage the mood disorder on their own, it already marks huge progress on the path to recovery.
Some individuals who are going through the same ordeal swear that meditation can help influence their mood from negative to mostly positive. However, it does take some time to properly master how to do so. Therefore, technology can actually step in to help out.
The MUSE is a gadget that can help ease beginners and even experts to achieve ultimate relaxation. This brain sensing headband is designed to work with a smartphone and a pair of earphones to provide real-time feedback related to your current state of mind.
Sensors monitor your brain activity and translate them into audio feedback so the user can train themselves to calm their feelings. Data is continuously recorded by the companion app on your smartphone so that users can track of their improvements.
Just note, that this cutting-edge piece of technology is not intended to replace an appointment with a therapist. The MUSE is compatible with the latest Android and iOS devices. It is rechargeable and uses Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity to wirelessly transmit data to the smartphone.
4. Fitbit Versa 2
Once we’re feeling down in the dumps, it becomes difficult to feel motivated to do anything. Studies have shown that individuals who generally have an active lifestyle tend to be happier and less likely to suffer from extreme mood changes that can lead to depression.
A cool gift to hopefully push someone to get out of bed jumpstart their metabolism is wearable tech such as fitness trackers. To hit two birds with one stone, you may want to consider the Fitbit Versa 2, which can double as a sleek and stylish smartwatch.
It comes in a variety of color combinations that will appeal to any user. If not, the wristbands are replaceable with a wide selection of official or third-party options. It is equipped with the latest collection of sensors that can track various activities, sleep, and heart rate. Results can be viewed on the device or through the companion app on your smartphone.
The Versa 2 also boasts impressive battery life which is listed at up to 6 days or more depending on your usage. The wearable ships with Amazon’s Alexa virtual assistant on board so you can enjoy hands-free voice control anytime.
Make payments even more convenient with the Fitbit Pay system, which uses the NFC chip to handle your purchases and other transactions. Even if the person you’re giving it to won’t immediately spring to action, the gesture will put a smile on their face.
At least they know you are concerned about their general wellbeing, which could be the spark they needed to break out of a slump.
5. Nintendo Switch
We are taking a chance here because video games are not exactly for everyone in the first place. However, if you know that the individual loves gaming, then this next gift suggestion is one of the best presents we can think of.
The Nintendo Switch is a hybrid game system, that can function as a portable handheld device or as a dedicated home console hooked to a TV. Since those who are experiencing depression probably just need to have someone to share their hobbies with, the unique feature of this gaming gadget could be just what they need.
You seem the two controllers on each side – called Joy-Cons – can be detached to function as individual gamepads for multiplayer mayhem. You and your buddy can practically play together using one system. It can support up to 8 simultaneous wireless controllers at any given time as long as the game is compatible.
What’s great about the Switch is the fact that it boasts a huge library of AAA titles published by Nintendo or other third-party studios. Its versatile nature ensures that your gameplay can seamlessly transition from handheld mode to docked mode with almost no delay.
Playing video games has been shown to stimulate the brain and improve hand-eye coordination. In some cases, local and online multiplayer sessions involve social skills. Moreover, it offers interactive visual entertainment that just might kick negative thoughts away.
6. Marshall Stockwell II Bluetooth Speaker
Since experiencing depression usually makes a person feel lethargic and lonely, it supposedly helps to use music to stir up feelings of euphoria. If you know the person used to love listening to tunes back in the day. A Bluetooth speaker is p be what the doctor ordered.
We stumbled upon a classy and nostalgic product that touts a simple yet attractive design that can easily go wherever you need to be. The Marshall Stockwell II – as the name implies – is the second-generation model of a capable portable wireless audio device.
The entire thing weighs only 3 lbs but is solidly built and finely tuned to produce outstanding audio. You’ll quickly notice that it even uses old-school elements such as analog control knobs. The speaker ships with a carrying handle inspired by a guitar strap that just adds to its charm.
It might seem fragile at first, but the quality of the build is definitely top-notch. Moreover, the Stockwell II is protected against most forms of moisture thanks to the IPX4-rated water resistance. The exterior is wrapped with a layer of silicone, while the grille is crafted out of solid metal. This makes it one tough customer when it comes to durability.
On a full charge, users can expect up to 20+ hours of playback time. Superior audio reproduction can be expected courtesy of its Blumlein Stereo Sound Construction, which generates a multi-directional sound output. Armed with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, users can enjoy wireless music playback up to 30 feet away.
Take your pick from three colorways: Black, Burgundy, and Grey. Share great audio anywhere you go with the Marshall Stockwell II and wave goodbye to the blues.
7. Nebula Capsule II Smart Mini Projector
Seeing a friend or relative battle depression can be one of the most difficult experiences ever. Nevertheless, we can always come up with ways to help them out. Perhaps one of the best ways to do so is to offer companionship. Doing stuff together can have a great impact and could even lead to a higher likelihood of recovery.
Earlier we listed some gadgets that encourage socialization and this next one is another alternative you can consider. While some folks prefer to watch TV shows or movies alone, it gets even better when you do so with other people. Thus, the Nebula Capsule II is an awesome gift that will provide visual and audio entertainment almost anywhere.
It is a mini projector with smart features that can output images or videos up to 100 inches on any surface. Skip the cinema and hang out with family and friends for impromptu movie marathons. The integrated 8W omnidirectional speaker means you’re getting visual and audio playback on one device only.
Our only gripe with this mini projector is the 2.5-hour battery life, but it makes up for it with the impressive functionality. With a high-capacity portable power source and you should be good to go for hours on end.
There is no shortage of connectivity options on the Anker Nebula Capsule II. It has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity and even has a Chromecast option. There’s even an HDMI port for those who want to connect their laptops, game systems, and more. So give one to your friend/relative and book some time off for some fun.
8. Art 101 142-Piece Art Set
When someone is diagnosed with depression, they are normally prone to be in a rut on more occasions than other folks. Modern studies regarding mental health treatment options have noted that those who are melancholic might want to try their hand at art.
Basically, it is finding a new type of hobby that can stimulate positive thoughts that can overpower negative ones. It can come in the form of activities such as sports, travel, entertainment, music, and others more. Drawing and painting may just be the outlet that can make a difference for an individual.
Art 101 introduces a 142-piece collection of various art supplies to get them started. There are 24 premium core colored pencils, 24 oil pastels, 60 crayons, 24 watercolor cakes, 2 sketch pencils, and more. Everything is stored within a wooden carrying case, which keeps all the contents neatly organized.
Encourage creativity so that they can learn how to skilfully use different types of medium to craft their masterpiece. Those who love adult coloring books will market at the sheer number of options available to handle the task. Rekindle the kid within and hopefully enjoy every step of the way.
The wooden storage box for this product features a main compartment that houses most of the art supplies. Meanwhile, the bottom drawer is where you can find the crayons. We’re are not sure if there is a locking mechanism the prevents the drawer from sliding out during transport, but at least the lid is held in place via the two metal clasps.
9. Fubarbar Build-On Brick Mug
Speaking of creativity, in our bid to help combat stress which could lead to depressive thoughts, we spotted a quirky yet interesting item that can possibly cheer someone up. Most of us grew up playing around with various brands of building blocks. Therefore, this Build-On Brick Mug from FUBARBAR will be something familiar and fun.
The goal here is to customize this drinking vessel using bricks from different brands such as LEGO, KRE-O, K’NEX, PixelBlocks, and Mega Bloks. The package includes the mug itself, plus three random brick sets that can be attached to the exterior surfaces.
Those who do not want to use it for their drinks can just use it to decorate their desks and perhaps hold various items such as pens, pencils, and other office supplies. The product will shine at moments when boredom strikes. Technically, it can become your go-to fidget device to kill time or to come up with ideas.
Since it will be used for consuming beverages, FUBARBAR made sure that it is manufactured from non-toxic materials. Hence, you’re looking at a mug made of BPA-free plastic that is chemically inert. Likewise, it can be used for cold or hot drinks, whichever the user wants.
The Build-On Brick Mug is available in five colors: orange, green, red, blue, and black. Just remember that the bricks should be used on the outer surface only. We don’t want to risk swallowing small pieces by accident.
10. Amazon Echo Show 5
Perhaps the best way to provide companionship to someone who is depressed is with the help of cutting-edge technology. These days, smart speakers are equipped with advanced features that can make interactions with the voice assistant feel so lifelike.
Complex algorithms and modern technology allow engineers and software developers to design smart products that can cater to your needs. Most of all, this can be done completely hands-free. Amazon is already a market leader for smart speakers thanks to Alexa.
The Echo Show 5 takes its one step further by integrating a 5.5-inch display and a front-facing camera. Now you can make and receive calls over the internet or choose to go for a video chat to make it even more personal. With over 80,000 Skills available for the device, mix and match whatever suits your needs.
With the ongoing issue related to privacy, Amazon added a physical camera shutter toggle to stop those who might use the camera to spy on users. In addition to the verbal command to deactivate its far-field microphones, a button is likewise available for this purpose, which is convenient.
Amazon’s Echo lineup of smart products are renowned for superb audio quality, so the Echo Show 5 can become a dedicated entertainment platform when the need arises. Command the virtual assistant to set reminders, play music, search for answers, and so much more.
Those who have other smart home gadgets can link them up and use the smart speaker to control everything remotely. Place it on your nightstand and turn it into your compact control center which can double as a fancy alarm clock that can do even more.
The Amazon Echo Show 5 is the smallest of the bunch, with two other models sporting an 8-inch or 10.1-inch display. You can get it in a Charcoal colorway or in another shade called Sandstone. Grab one as well, so you can communicate with whoever received the other one whenever you want to.