9 Best Get Well Soon Gifts to Help Lift Someone’s Spirits

The winter season, with its bone-chilling cold, shorter days with scant amounts of sunlight, and prevalence of sicknesses and maladies that thrive when the temperature drops, can be a challenging time. Between cold and flu season and the winter blues, most of us could use a few extra sparks of joy and gestures of support to get through until spring.

“It's not unusual to experience mood changes when the winter months are upon us," explains Dr. Melanie Ross Mills, a relationship expert and author of "The Friendship Bond." Dr. Mel, as she's affectionately known, adds that the combination of cold weather, more darkness, and less physical activity can make us feel more tired and sluggish. “We get sick more often and have less sunlight, so our serotonin can drop, making us experience lower moods than in the spring and summer."

She says it's helpful to be tuned in to signals from friends, family, and work colleagues who may be feeling less than their best this time of year. “Arming ourselves with the awareness that there could be seasonal factors at play in the lives of the people around us can help us navigate these relationships."

How to pick someone up who's feeling down

Whether it's due to a head cold or case of seasonal affective disorder, a small show of support can go a long way toward helping loved ones through the season. Dr. Mel advises embracing someone's preferences for expressing and receiving love when choosing what that support should look like. “For some, it could be a kind gesture, others might enjoy a little gift, while others would love to go grab coffee. The key is making the effort so that they know you care."

And you don't need to spend a lot of time or money to pass the good vibes along. “Small gifts and tokens of friendship go a long way," Dr. Mel explains. “Often times, we believe the myth that 'bigger is better,' but it's not. People just want to know that you care. Even if they might not even feel good enough at the moment to thank you appropriately, still make the effort."

She recalls a time when she was recovering from a medical procedure and a friend was there. “She took the time to pick out small gifts that would help me in my recovery. I've never forgotten her thoughtfulness, her checking in on me — that made all the difference."

During the winter doldrums, the simple act of gift giving can not only provide a boost to someone not feeling their best but can lift your own spirits as well. After all, there are real, science-backed benefits that come from giving gifts, including a surge in those feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin. So, if there's someone in your life who could use a bit of sunshine — a little unexpected show of support and love — why hesitate?

9 gift ideas that provide a much-needed lift

Let them know how much you care, and how much loved they are, with a gift to lift their spirits. We've done the hard part of browsing for you and come up with nine great get well soon gift ideas. All that's left for you to do is add a heartfelt message of support!