5 Comfort Gifts for Friends in Therapy (That Aren’t Just a Journal)

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and there’s no better time to show up for the people you love, especially those doing the hard, beautiful work of healing. If you have a friend in therapy (or if you’re that friend), this list is for you.
Finding a thoughtful, meaningful gift that says “I see you, and I support you” can be tricky. But these comfort-focused ideas are perfect for friends, partners, or anyone navigating therapy, anxiety, or self-discovery.
Because healing is worth celebrating.
1. A Mental Health Affirmation Shirt
Because some days you need your outfit to do the talking.
🧵 Make Your Therapist Proud T-Shirt
Soft, cozy, and created by someone who’s been there, this shirt isn’t just clothing — it’s a quiet high-five for showing up for yourself.
Whether they wear it to therapy, around the house, or out in the world, it says what’s hard to say out loud: "I'm doing the work."
2. A Weighted Blanket or Stuffed Animal
Like a hug that stays as long as you need.
Weighted comfort items help calm the nervous system and bring a sense of safety — especially for friends living with anxiety, ADHD, or trauma. They’re not just trendy; they’re therapeutic.
Look for options around 10% of the recipient’s body weight. Bonus points if it’s shaped like a giant frog or dinosaur 🐸🦖
3. A Therapy-Inspired Art Print
Visual reminders of resilience.
🖼️ Self-Care Shirts Poster Collection
These prints are gentle, powerful affirmations you can hang on your wall — reminders to breathe, grow, and be kind to yourself. They’re perfect for bedrooms, therapy offices, or anywhere that needs a little emotional sunlight.
4. A Month of Calm
Give the gift of guided breathing, sleep support, and mindfulness.
Apps like Calm, Headspace, and Insight Timer are incredible self-care tools, but subscriptions can feel like a luxury. Gifting a friend a month or year of access can be a deeply meaningful gesture.
It’s like saying, “Here’s a breath of peace — on me.”
5. A Handwritten Letter or Card
Low-cost. High impact.
Never underestimate the power of a heartfelt message. A card that says “I’m proud of how far you’ve come” or “You’re allowed to rest” can mean everything, especially during Mental Health Awareness Month.
Add a quote, a memory, or just a reminder that your friend is not alone. (If you need help getting started, there’s no shame in using ChatGPT 💌)
💚 Celebrate Their Healing — This Month and Always
Mental Health Awareness Month is about more than sharing infographics — it’s about showing up. And sometimes, showing up looks like a shirt, a blanket, or a note that simply says:
“You’re not alone. And you’re doing amazing.”
🛍️ Want to browse more affirming gifts designed by someone who's been there?
Explore all Self-Care Shirts here.