Thoughtful Gifts for Someone Who Is Burnt Out, Anxious or Having a Hard Time
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When someone you love is struggling, it's hard to know what to give. Self-care hampers can feel like homework. "Good vibes only" can feel like a telling off. The best gifts for someone having a hard time ask nothing of them. They just sit nearby and say: I see you.
What makes a good gift for someone who's struggling?
- No effort required. Nothing to assemble, track or keep up.
- No fixing. Avoid anything that says "here's how to be better".
- Comforting to hold, wear or see.
- A bit of humour. Being understood and being made to smile is a strong combination.
Gift ideas by what they're going through
For someone who is burnt out
Running On Empty, affirmation cards for burnt-out brains. 52 cards plus a limited edition holographic card. Each card has an affirmation from Duck on the front and a grounding reflection from Wise Frog on the back. Pull one a day, or none at all. No streaks.
For someone with ADHD, AuDHD or a busy mind
Brain Just Dramatic affirmation cards, written for dramatic brains. Pair with a Brain Just Dramatic tee so they can wear the explanation.
For someone with chronic illness or fluctuating energy
Body Has Other Plans, affirmation cards for chronic illness. A traffic-light deck: red, amber and green cards chosen by how you feel that day. More in our guide to chronic illness and fluctuating energy.
For someone with anxiety, or just a hard year
The original Still a Good Duck affirmation cards: 52 gentle reminders. Our bestseller. Over 2,000 DiplomaDuck decks now live on desks, bedside tables and fridges.
For someone who needs to be cosy
A heavyweight DiplomaDuck hoodie or sweatshirt, or the Duck is Still a Good Duck sweatshirt. A hug they can wear on the bad days.
For someone who needs a laugh
A custom message, explained by ducks, or a card from our greeting cards range. Sometimes the right words come from a duck.
For a little one
Our little duck kids range, for small people with big feelings.
What to write in the card
Keep it short. Skip "stay positive". Try one of these:
- "No need to reply. Just thinking of you."
- "You don't have to be OK to be loved."
- "Still a good duck."
Gift FAQ
What do you get someone with anxiety?
Something comforting and low-pressure: affirmation cards, a soft hoodie, a warm mug, or simply a card that says you're not expecting anything back.
Are affirmation cards a good gift?
If they're gentle and not preachy, yes. See how to use affirmation cards without it feeling cringe.