Great Gift Ideas That Express Your Care for Your Friend with HS

‘Tis the season… to be stressful! As we all are too familiar with the overwhelming stress that is associated with the holiday season, it makes it that much easier to stress about what would be the most thoughtful gift you can purchase for your loved one who suffers from a chronic condition.

Gifts to show you care

You’re probably thinking to yourself, how can I express that I care about their well-being and also show them that I understand they have to live with such a debilitating illness without crossing the line?

I know, I know... it’s a fine line; rest assured, speaking as one who lives with HS, I'm here to give you some great gift ideas that should take the pressure off you possibly giving something offensive.

With that said, here are five stress-relieving gift ideas that would most certainly be sure to express the amount of care you have for them!

Pharmacy gift card

Yes, that’s right. A gift card to your friend's nearby pharmacy, or perhaps a big variety store like Target or Walmart, and here's the reason why this would make a great stress-relieving gift.

Your friend could privately shop at their local pharmacy to pick out their favorite HS-friendly products. Hence, saving you time and also helping you not to stress out about crossing the line by getting the wrong gift. Trust me, your friend will deeply appreciate your thoughtfulness behind this great gift.

Scented candles

One of the best therapeutic ways to relax and de-stress is to light one of your favorite scented candles. Hence, one of my favorite ways to de-stress is to pick up some nicely scented candles then go home to sit on the couch with a good book and just enjoy the fragrance of a nice soothing candle. According to Lit Up Candle Co., “...lighting candles can help ease and soothe the mind.”¹

Adult coloring books

This suggestion may come as a shock, but believe it or not, once you decide to let out your inner child and re-connect with most likely one of your favorite childhood activities, it can lead to a relaxing state of mind. The Cleveland Clinic states “It relaxes the brain. When thoughts are focused on this simple activity, your brain tends to relax. You’re not disturbed by your thoughts and appraisals.” So next time you're feeling stressed, don’t think twice about grabbing some colored pencils and hitting the books!²

Air purifier plants

If you’re anything like me and you don’t have the best green thumb, then this gift suggestion might make you think twice. But rest assured, because there are many easy to care for plants that will look beautiful in your friend's home and also purify the air. Some of my favorites are peace lily, snake plant, and aloe vera. They are all great-looking plants that are easy to care for, and most importantly, they will keep your friend's place nice and clean by purifying the air.

Cozy robe

Nothing says to relax and take it easy more than a cozy robe. Your friend would love this gift. As someone living with HS for over 14 years I’ll be the first one to say that not every day is going to be a productive day. All things considered, it’s okay to have a lazy day and enjoy that new cozy robe. If my words are not enough to convince you that lazy days are a must, then perhaps you can take some advice from Bruno Mars, as he states in his song, The Lazy Song, “I'll be lounging on the couch, just chilling in my Snuggie Click to MTV, so they can teach me how to Dougie Cause in my castle I'm the freaking man.”

Lastly, happy holidays to all. May the new year bring you positive vibes and good health. Take care 💜.