Amid the carols in the air and the homes and businesses decked out with lights, it’s important to remember that mental illnesses don’t take holidays off. For some who live with mental health conditions, the Christmas season can be an especially challenging time as extra social situations, changes in routines and expectations of merriment and cheer add additional hurdles on top of everyday struggles.
However, amid these extra challenges, there are several ways friends and family members can help. Below are five gifts that can help those dealing with mental illnesses navigate the holidays and experience the joy of the season.
Give tangible warmth and comfort.
There’s just something about being wrapped in a soft blanket or slipping on fuzzy socks that conveys comfort. As winter approaches, a gift that offers warmth as well as communicates care is both practical and meaningful. And, for the many living with serious mental illnesses who face homelessness, a blanket or sleeping bag is an essential.
Take time to truly listen.
Stigma, misconceptions and fear so often isolate those living with serious mental illnesses, leading many to feel misunderstood or invisible. But by listening and seeking to truly understand someone else’s perspective and experiences, you can affirm that person’s dignity and help them know they are seen and cared for.
The gift of listening can be especially meaningful during the busyness and expectations of the Christmas season. By taking the time to ask how someone is doing and then fully hearing the answer, you can help someone who may be struggling know that it’s OK if they’re not in a festive mood, as well as feel more free to be open about things that could help them have a happier holiday.
Send encouragement.
Members of the Well Community often share how words from Scripture or a message they heard have encouraged them on difficult days. Giving a Bible or a book with a positive message can be a great way to come alongside someone dealing with mental illness during a potentially stressful season. Consider including a note about something you’ve found particularly encouraging about the book you’re giving for a more personal touch.
Assemble a care package.
Many who deal with serious mental illnesses also live with poverty, and as a result they struggle to obtain essentials for personal care. By providing hygiene items, you can affirm a person’s dignity and help remove some of the barriers he or she faces in pursuing stability.
Consider putting together a care package of supplies like shampoo, soap and toothpaste, as well as healthy snacks and a fun surprise or two such as a winter scarf or a gift card. Adding a personal note of encouragement can be a much-appreciated touch as well.
Shop the Well Community’s Christmas wish list.
Every December during our annual holiday party, each Well Community member receives a backpack stuffed full of personal care items, snacks, winter hats and gloves and more, all of which help to give them a merry Christmas and safe winter. All of these items are donated by generous friends of the Well, and shopping the Well’s Christmas wish list on Amazon makes it easy to contribute: just add items to your cart and have them shipped directly to the Well Community when you check out.
A simple gift can make a big difference for someone struggling with their mental health this holiday season! As you shop and celebrate, don’t forget to add some of these items to your list so you can help to make Christmastime a more joyful time for them—and for you as you experience the blessings of giving!