Over half of the American population admits to being stressed out on a daily basis.

From work and finances to family and other obligations, life can feel overwhelming. Do you know someone who could benefit from a little stress relief?

A gift card or gesture can work wonders for helping a loved one relax and regroup. . When your friend is stressed, there is nothing quite like giving him a thoughtful gift or a gift card to reduce their stress. I came across this amazing site (and I know that gifts for men can be hard to find) that offers a variety of manly gifts including Beef Jerky Flowers, Bacon Roses, Manly Gift Boxes, and Meat Cards. Check out their website.

Some of the gifts that manlymanco.com offer:

Here are a few other ideas to help a stressed friend ease their worries:

This guide will offer eight thoughtful gifts for stressed people that are sure to brighten someones’ day.

1. Bath Salt Gift Set

There’s something calming and intimate about a hot bath. It’s a time to reflect on your thoughts and quiet both your mind and body.

The warm water is soothing, helping to relax tense muscles caused by stress. Encourage your stressed friend to take a few minutes to enjoy a warm, relaxing bath.

Gift them a bath set that includes exfoliating salts, including Epsom and Himalayan pink salts. CBD infused bath salts are growing in popularity as well thanks to their healing benefits.

Want to add more items to your basket? Check out this cannabis gift guide or include lavender scented candles for ambiance.

2. Weighted Blanket 

The discovery of sensory issues is a recent phenomenon. It helps us better understand certain people’s adverse reactions to sounds, smells, and touch.

If you know someone who has a hard time sitting still, sleeping at night, or calming themselves in stimulating situations, a weighted blanket might be the perfect gift.

Weighted blankets are said to help soothe stress and anxiety by simulating a gentle but firm hug. Users feel safe, secure, and calm.

The best part is these blankets come in a variety of colors and fabrics to match any home decor.

3. Book of Inspirational Quotes

Sometimes a few encouraging words are all it takes to make a big difference. Why not gift the stressed friend in your life a book filled with inspirational quotes?

A daily reminder of the positive things in life helps put things in perspective. Your friend can keep a small book with them and read a motivational quote each day.

You can also give them a journal and pen to track their thoughts, feelings, and breakthroughs on, especially tough days.

4. Spa Day Gift Certificate

Practicing self-care is essential for reducing stress and achieving mental clarity. The problem is most people either don’t have the time or feel selfish indulging in themselves.

Help encourage your stressed friend to pamper themselves with a spa day gift certificate. Include a massage, facial, manicure, pedicure or whatever services your friend would enjoy most.

Now they can’t use the excuse that they don’t have the money to spend since you’ve taken care of that for them! Go one step further and book the service in advance so they can’t decline your generous offer.

5. Playful Stress Toy

Stress toys have come a long way since handheld stress balls. Now, you can purchase some adorable, useful, and soothing stress toys for your friend who needs them most.

A fun shaped pillow that doubles as a heating pad offers soothing relief from both mental and physical stress. Your friend can hug the pillow tight when they’re in need of comfort.

Fidget spinners and other handheld toys were all the rage several years ago for their ability to help calm those with extra pent-up energy. Other fun items include magnetic sculptures, Chinese meditation balls, and a scalp massager.

6. Essential Oil Diffuser 

The benefits of essential oils are far-reaching. From soothing stress and anxiety to alleviating headaches and even sinus trouble, there’s a scent for most ailments. An essential oil diffuser is one of the perfect gifts for someone with anxiety.

They can keep the diffuser at home or work and change the scents depending on their mood.

Some popular aromas for soothing stress include lavender, lemongrass, ylang-ylang, and frankincense.

7. Yoga or Meditation Gift Set

Quieting the mind and body is one of the best and fastest ways to reduce daily stress. If someone you know could benefit from a few minutes of calm breathing, a yoga or meditation gift set makes a great gift.

The best part of these two ancient practices is that they can be done virtually anywhere. All you need is a mat and a quiet space with minimal distraction.

Gift your friend a yoga mat, towel, and water bottle along with a beginner’s guide on basic yoga poses. You can perform meditation on a yoga mat as well or a small pillow, blanket or rug.

Include a set of white sage smudge incense sticks, which she can use during meditation, yoga, or any random day when she can spend a few hours in solitude and quiet contemplation. This time for self-care will certainly recharge her body and her mind, preparing her for another day of taking on the world.

Breathing exercises are an important part of both yoga and meditation. When you learn to focus your attention on your breath, you become more aware of the mind-body connection and learn to control your thoughts.

This includes calming and expelling negative and stressful thoughts. After a few sessions, your stressed loved one will learn to breathe through their troubles and welcome more positivity into their life.

8. A Meaningful Piece of Jewelry

Daily reminders of love and friendship go a long way in reducing stress. People suffering from anxiety often feel alone in their struggle. Why not gift your stressed friend a piece of jewelry that reminds them of how much you care?

Do you two share a special phrase or memory? Personalize a necklace, bracelet, or even a keychain that they can carry as a reminder of your constant support.

The Best Gifts for Stressed People Come from the Heart

Some of the best gifts for stressed people are simple and personal. Most friends and loved ones will appreciate you recognizing and acknowledging their current struggles.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money or make a grand gesture to lift a stressed friend’s spirits.

Are you looking for tips and tricks on promoting your own health and wellbeing? Check our blog regularly for advice on living your best life!

Mandy X

Author: Mandy Kloppers

Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.