Top 10 Gift Ideas for the Depressed

[janbear]

Top 10 Gift Ideas for the Depressed
From Nancy Schimelpfening,
There are many things we'd like to have--lasting happiness, peace on Earth and a cure for cancer--but when it comes to material needs these are some gifts which would really lift our spirits.
1) Cash
One of the ways that depression hits hardest is financially. Between the medical bills and the loss of work days, it can be hard to just keep up. Offer to pay some bills, give a gift certificate or phone card or give them the cash to spend as needed.
2) A Day of Pampering
There's nothing like a little pampering to make a person feel special. A gift certificate for a local day spa or a gift basket for a do-it-yourself spa day make a nice gift that fits any budget.

3) A Good Book
When you just feel like snuggling up in some comfy pajamas and hiding from the world there's nothing like a good book to keep you company.

4) A Nice Journal
Writing one's thoughts and feelings in a journal can be very therapeutic. Many blank books available have beautiful covers and inspirational quotes throughout.

5) Relaxation CD
Stress and anxiety are often problems faced by the depressed. Soothing music can be very helpful.

6) Nighttime Comfort
Does your loved one have trouble with sleep? How about one of these gifts to make bedtime more comfortable?

7) The Gift of Music
Music has the amazing gift of conveying emotion without saying word. It has the power to express how we are feeling when we aren't able.

8) Maid Service
Having a clean living environment can make a person feel so much better, but when even getting out of bed is a chore housework may get neglected.

9) Send Flowers
Your best choice is a live plant. There's nothing more depressing than dead flowers and a live plant will give your loved one something to care for and nurture. Have them delivered to their workplace if possible. It's a real boost for your co-workers to see that someone cares about you.

10) A Pet
It goes without saying that you should be certain this is something your loved one would want before making the purchase, but a pet can a lifesaver for the lonely. Animals love us unconditionally and give us a reason to go on living.