With the holidays coming up, you be looking for gift ideas for a friend or loved one recovering from addiction. Generally speaking, people recovering from addiction like the same things as everyone else, although anything related to drugs or alcohol is clearly off limits. However, you might want to give something that lets her know you’re proud of how far she’s come and you are there to support her. Here are a few ideas.
A journal
Many people find writing in a journal to be a valuable part of recovery. It can help relieve stress, process difficult experiences, clarify thoughts, and practice gratitude. It can also be a little hard to get into the habit of writing every day. Having a nice journal or diary to write in can make the exercise a little more appealing. Most bookstores and stationery shops will have a selection of journals, and, of course, you can also look online.
A spa day
Stress is a major relapse trigger for most people. Giving someone a spa day can be something he or she can save for a stressful time. While it’s best to manage stress day to day with healthy lifestyle habits and emotional regulation strategies, a well timed mini-vacation may be just the thing when life starts to feel overwhelming. A deep massage or some time in the sauna can relieve a lot of built up tension. It can also be used as something to look forward to after some difficult task. If it’s something you feel comfortable with, book a spa day for both of you and use it as bonding time.
Something sentimental
A gift doesn’t have to be expensive to be meaningful. People recovering from addiction often have some residual guilt about their past behavior. They may be unsure whether their friends and family will forgive them. Think about gifts that show you value your relationship. It could be something as simple as a framed photo together or something that references an inside joke or an experience you once shared.
Books
There are many good books, both fiction and non-fiction, about recovering from addiction and mental illness. If you happen to have a favorite, you might buy that as a gift. The one caveat is to make sure it’s not something that could be triggering. Any book that romanticizes drinking or drug use, or is perhaps too vivid in its portrayal might do more harm than good, especially early in recovery. A gift card to a bookstore may also be a good idea, so she can choose something that resonates with her.
A gym membership
Use this one with caution, especially if the gift is for your partner. Exercise is one of the best things you can do for yourself, especially if you are recovering from addiction or mental illness, but many people have trouble getting started. Giving someone a gym membership might lower the barrier to starting. A related idea is to buy someone a few sessions of an exercise class, such as spin class or yoga.
If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction or mental illness, we can help. Recovery Ways is a premier drug and alcohol addiction treatment facility located in Salt Lake City, Utah. We have the resources to effectively treat a dual diagnosis. Our mission is to provide the most cost-effective, accessible substance abuse treatment to as many people as possible. Request information online or call us today at 1-888-986-7848.
