Holiday shopping season is in full swing. If you're looking for the perfect gift for a loved one new to recovery, here are a few classic gift ideas you can be sure will make them smile and support their healthy lifestyle.
A blank journal. Writing in a journal at night before bed is a great way to process the events of the day as well as a nurturing, sustainable mental health tool. Your loved one can use the blank journal you give them to process their feelings, track projects and accomplishments, write poetry, compose songs, or begin an autobiography. Not much of a writer? Your loved one can still use the space to doodle, sketch or collect inspiring images and thoughts. The beauty of a blank journal is that the ways it can be used are limited only by imagination.
A high-end gym membership. It's been proven time and again that regular exercise is not only good for your body, but an excellent therapy for the mind. The holidays are the perfect time to splurge on a loved one's annual gym membership or spring for a series of specialized exercise classes, like water ballet or hot yoga. Being able to hit the gym when they're frustrated or upset will give your loved one another positive health option to use instead of picking up their drug of choice.
Potted plants. The positive impact of nature on our psyche is so powerful that even just looking at images of natural scenes has been shown to boost mood by significant levels. Potted plants are very in vogue these days and come in all sorts of varieties that even the most brown-thumbed beginning gardeners can keep alive. Caring for another living thing can also help your loved one appreciate their compassionate side, even when they're feeling down.
Show tickets. Tickets to a concert or show your loved one has had their eye on is another great gift idea perfect for someone in recovery. Having a date to look forward to in the future can help your loved one stay committed to their recovery even when the current day is a tough one.
Quality time. Don't forget that the most valuable thing you have to offer a loved one can't be wrapped or boxed up. Sharing time with your loved one, like sharing a hobby, catching a movie or just running errands together, is the most important gift you can give this holiday season. You can't put a price tag on how good it feels to spend time with someone who understands you and will stick by your side.
Don't stress if you didn't find anything for your loved one in recovery from addiction on cyber Monday or black Friday. Simple but substantial gifts including quality time, a new potted plant or tickets to a favorite band's next concert will get your message of love and appreciation across loud and clear. Your friendship means everything.