From health issues to losing a job, many unfortunate situations can pop up without warning and cause pain, grief, and uncertainty about the future. In times like these, it’s natural to wonder what you can do to make a positive difference.
Generally, it’s best not to overthink things when reaching out to a struggling loved one. If you do, you could become so worried about saying or doing the wrong thing that you end up doing nothing at all. Most people would rather hear the wrong thing said with good intentions than be left completely alone when they need support the most. If you need a little inspiration to help you reach out, here are five creative ways to show you care during tough times.
1. Send Them Thoughtful Gifts
Many people have come to expect flowers when they’re sick or feeling down. There’s nothing wrong with sending a floral arrangement, but if you really want to be unique, consider sending something more thoughtful. For example, you might gift a friend in the hospital a book they’ve been wanting to read. That way they’ll have something to keep their mind occupied and entertained while they recover.
You might also send a sympathy gift basket to someone who’s recently experienced a loss. Look for a basket that includes comforting items such as fuzzy slippers, hand lotion, or soothing foods like cookies and soups. Your loved one will appreciate your thoughtfulness and feel extra cared for during difficult times.
2. Create Something Handmade
Sometimes, the nicest gifts are handmade. Even if you aren’t great at crafting, anyone can learn how to make something simple. You’d be surprised how easy it is to find online tutorials for handcrafted items of practically every variety. Think about a skill you’ve always wanted to learn, such as crocheting, painting, woodworking, or jewelry making. Then, learn how to create a simple project of your choice and gift it to your friend or family member.
If you’re stumped for ideas, consider crocheting a washcloth or knitting a simple beanie. You could also opt for something even easier like a bouquet of paper flowers that won’t fade with time. You could even create a simple handmade card with a heartfelt note. What you make doesn’t have to be perfect. Your friend may find any imperfections endearing and appreciate the fact that you took the time to craft something from hand just for them.
3. Reserve a “Mental Health” Day for Them
It’s easy to get so caught up in your troubles that you can’t think of anything else. If your friend or family member can’t seem to get their mind off their woes, help them out by spending a “mental health day” with them. Fill the day with fun activities that will lift their spirits and make them forget about their worries.
You might schedule a spa day for your loved one so they get some much-needed pampering and care. You could also take them shopping for a new outfit or items they need for a favorite hobby. If money is an issue, have a picnic at a nearby park and talk about favorite shared memories. Or you could stay home and watch comedy movies until your sides hurt from laughing. A mental health day can go a long way toward restoring greater internal peace and resilience.
4. Reminisce About Their Accomplishments
If your friend is feeling bad about themselves after losing a job, being involved in a breakup, or going through depression, it’s important to build them up. Low self-esteem can make even small setbacks seem insurmountable. In addition to verbally complimenting them and telling them what you love about them, it can be helpful to reminisce about specific accomplishments.
For example, talk about a time when they did something challenging and succeeded. It could be as simple as jumping off the high diving board at the pool or as important as getting a huge promotion. Emphasize the talents, hard work, and positive qualities they exhibited while overcoming their fears. Simple conversations like these can help your loved one remember they are strong and capable of doing difficult things.
5. Do Something Fun and Childlike
Being an adult can be extremely difficult with its accompanying responsibilities and big expectations. It’s easy to forget how to have fun and engage in activities that are carefree and exciting. If you know someone who’s bogged down with the mundane demands of life, convince them to do something fun and childlike with you.
Ideas include riding bikes around town, reading favorite childhood books together, or going to a nearby pond to feed the ducks. You could even head to a nearby park and throw frisbees or have a contest to see who can swing higher. The sillier and more carefree the activity, the better.
Everyone goes through difficult times in life. If you want others to be there for you when you need support, it’s crucial to be there for them. The next time someone you care about feels overwhelmed or sad about life’s circumstances, try these suggestions to lift their mood and help them persevere.
