Let’s face it: It is hard to be a human. Between general life stressors like parenting responsibilities, financial woes, and navigating relationships, plus broader issues like concerns about the environment and political issues, mental health issues aren’t uncommon. In fact, in 2024, it was found that 1 in 5 adults living in the United States suffers from mental illness.  Following this statistic, it is nearly certain someone you know, and likely someone you love, is struggling with their mental health.

Caring for someone who is in the midst of a mental health battle is difficult. It can be worrisome and even frustrating if you don’t know how to help. As a licensed psychotherapist, I spend my days with those who have a deep wish to care for their loved ones who are struggling as well as those who are struggling themselves. This has given me a nuanced perspective on how folks can show up meaningfully without feeling drained. Here’s the secret: It is a combination of words of affirmation, useful tools, and thoughtful gestures.

It can be difficult to find the right words of support, let alone tangible acts of service and gifts that show you care. That’s why I’m here to share some therapist-approved tools you can use to support your loved one. Everything I recommend has been tested by me or a member of the Everyday Health team, which is made up of health and wellness experts, writers, and industry veterans. Rest assured, help is here – let us show you a path to wellness.

All of the love and care in the world isn’t a replacement for professional support. This isn’t meant to be dismissive or leave you feeling like you’re falling short; it's to provide a helpful reminder that you don’t have to carry it all by yourself. Connecting your loved one to therapy is one of the most compassionate things you can do.

Brightside Health is an online therapy platform specializing in anxiety and depression, offering both therapy and psychiatry services. It also features a unique suicide prevention therapy program, which is especially important since it is rare to find crisis care through a telehealth platform. So if you’re worried about your loved one’s safety, Brightside Health is a great resource.

I had a chance to test out their services and was impressed with the quality of care I received, having had a fantastic experience with the therapist I worked with. My therapist was warm and was easy to connect with. Her style was structured, and I left every session with actionable tools.

Something that is especially impressive about Brightside Health is its affordability. You’ll never pay more than $350 a month for both therapy and psychiatry services. This is noteworthy — in Los Angeles, where I live (which is admittedly a high-cost-of-living area), a single therapy session begins around $200 and can shoot upwards of $300. Plus, Brightside accepts major insurance plans and some Medicare and Medicaid plans, which is unusual in the online therapy space.

If you have the means and your loved one is struggling financially, offering to cover some of their monthly plan can be a great way to help them get started.

Medication can be an important part of a person’s healing journey. It is best to see a psychiatrist, a board-certified doctor who specializes in the treatment of mental health. Talkiatry stands out as an online psychiatry service because of how much time you’ll spend with your provider. The initial Talkiatry session lasts 60 minutes, and follow-ups are 30 minutes, which is twice as long as its competitors’ sessions. This increased time allows your loved one to build a more connected relationship, while the provider gains a robust clinical picture to help determine which medications to prescribe.

Talkiatry also offers therapy services, which is a benefit if your loved one would like therapeutic support as well and wishes to have all of their treatment needs met through one platform. Services are also available for children ages 5 and up, so you can help the struggling kiddo in your life get connected to support.

Talkiatry treats a wide variety of mental health disorders, including ADHD, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depression, PTSD, and more. Best of all, every Talkiatry provider is in-network with major insurance plans, making its services that much more accessible.

In short, if your loved one is considering medication, encourage them to check out Talkiatry.

It can be difficult to find a mental health provider who accepts insurance. A 2024 study surveyed over 170,000 psychotherapists throughout the United States and found nearly one-third of providers did not accept insurance. The truth is that many folks cannot afford out-of-pocket therapy services.

When in the depths of mental anguish, combing through therapy directories in hopes of landing on someone you connect with who happens to accept your insurance is simply unrealistic. Luckily, there’s Talkspace. It is in-network with a ton of major insurance companies, including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, and more. Plus, I like that it matches folks with a therapist, and how easy it is to switch providers at any time, so your loved one doesn’t have to do any heavy lifting while they’re feeling poorly.

Don’t have insurance? No worries. Talkspace also offers affordable subscription options. You can expect to pay $69-$109 per week out of pocket, which is still less than most private pay options.

If you have a loved one recovering from a traumatic event, they’re far from alone. A study conducted across 24 countries found that 70% of participants have experienced trauma. Plus, nearly 4% of adults in the United States met the criteria for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder over the past year. Trauma recovery requires intensive support, with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as a first-line treatment. That’s why I love Innerwell, an online therapy platform that accepts insurance and offers providers specializing in EMDR.

I had a chance to try out the platform. As a therapist specializing in trauma, I was prepared to be extra scrutinous. Instead, I experienced warm, depth-focused care with a talented clinician.

So, if your loved one needs help processing their trauma, Innerwell is a good place to start.

While connecting your loved one to professional support is extremely helpful, so is getting them set up with tools they can use day to day. I recommend tactile objects that provide soothing effects to my clients. For example, a weighted object like a blanket or stuffed animal offers deep pressure therapy, which can reduce symptoms of anxiety. A stress ball, a malleable object that can be squeezed, has been found to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression. Journaling, especially when done over time, can also have a meaningful effect on symptoms of anxiety and depression. With this in mind, here are our top picks for healing tools.

Stimulating various senses is a grounding technique I use with clients, offering them something cuddly, scented, or uniquely textured to bring them out of their heads and into the present moment. Weight, scent, texture, and childhood nostalgia all come together with this weighted sloth stuffed animal from Warmies, making it a fantastic tool to have on hand. Something that we especially loved about this stuffie was that it was supportive for the whole family. “We used ours when my son got an ear infection, when I get cramps, migraines, neck pain, or a sinus infection,” shared editorial director Simone Scully. Even her husband snuggled up with it when he was having some jaw pain. I imagine someone reaching for this when they’re having an especially tough day.

A stress ball is great to have on hand when navigating stressful or frustrating situations. I especially like these tools to keep in desk drawers, since dealing with even minor work drama can feel catastrophic when you’re already having a rough mental health day. “They feel higher quality than other squishies like this,” said writer and editor Olivia Campbell. She appreciated how quiet and subtle this stress ball is, so your loved one can easily use it at work without attracting unwanted attention. She also noted that it doesn’t attract hair or lint, a practical benefit we love.

There’s nothing like the soothing pressure of a soft weighted blanket to quell anxiety. This one from Bearaby is also easy on the eyes. It’s a luxe treat that provides practical support and will look great in their home. Unlike some weighted blankets that look like a plain comforter, this one looks like a plush knit blanket. It is also made of TENCEL, which offers cooling properties. “I’ve been dealing with a lot of anxiety lately, but when I use this (or sleep with it), I actually do feel myself relax into it – it’s one of the few things that works,” shared Scully.

I often encourage my clients to take notes on how they’re feeling between sessions. Whether it is a passing thought, a random memory that surfaces, or an issue they want to tackle in their next session, having a journal to jot it all down in is helpful. The birth month mini journal from Rifle Paper Co. is petite enough to toss in a purse or backpack, ensuring they don’t miss a thought. Scully noted that she loved the embroidery and generally found the journal to be stunning. It even inspired her to return to journaling more consistently. There’s nothing like the soothing pressure of a soft weighted blanket to quell anxiety. This one from Bearaby is also easy on the eyes. It’s a luxe treat that provides practical support and will look great in their home. Unlike some weighted blankets that look like a plain comforter, this one looks like a plush knit blanket. It is also made of TENCEL, which offers cooling properties. “I’ve been dealing with a lot of anxiety lately, but when I use this (or sleep with it), I actually do feel myself relax into it – it’s one of the few things that works,” shared Scully.

Relaxation, sleep, and exercise can all help you get out of a mental health rut, but getting started can be the hardest part. Each of these gifts is practical while feeling special. From a small gesture to a big splurge, there’s something for every person and any budget.

An eye mask can help their quality of sleep, even leading to a boost in brain power the following day. But, here’s the really great thing about eye masks — they can also be used for a brief grounding moment, promoting relaxation and a second to catch your breath. This one from Ostrichpillow is extra special because it is weighted and can be used for both hot and cold therapy. I first used this eye mask after a rough day of navigating some health issues with my mom and intense parenting. I popped this eye mask into the microwave for 30 seconds. Then, I rested with it on top of my eyes while lying down and focusing on my breath. It was an extremely restorative experience that helped me reset just in time for dinner and bedtime with my young son.

Pilates is everywhere right now. Reformer classes have taken off, and simple at-home setups are becoming increasingly accessible. The reasoning makes sense — it’s an effective yet gentle exercise that can also decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. I like this prop starter kit from Your Reformer. It comes in various cheery colors, has just the basics you need (an exercise ball, pilates ring, and light hand weights), and is petite enough to be easily tucked out of sight. If your loved one needs an easy way to move their body in times of stress, this kit is a great choice.

Exercise can be crucial for managing mental health concerns. Unfortunately, the debilitating effects of mental illness can make it difficult to leave the house. An indoor exercise bike is a splurge that’s good for those days when it is too hard to make it to the gym, and we are especially fond of this one from Bowflex. Writer Raki Swanson appreciated that this bike comes with 100 resistance levels, access to the Peloton and Zwift apps, dumbbells, and a Bluetooth-enabled heart rate armband. All in all, this is a great way to get moving without the stress of venturing outside during a difficult time. “I know that I am getting a workout in the comfort of my home on a solid piece of equipment,” she shared.

A long soak in the tub can feel so soothing and, honestly, much needed during a rough time. But even drawing a bath can feel overwhelming on a dark day. The Gratitude Box from GIFTED by Free From features a thick body lotion, a soothing lavender-rosemary bath soak, and an invigorating lavender-eucalyptus bar of soap. I had a chance to try this box out and enjoyed how easy this box made it for me to relax. Plus, all GIFTED employees, including those who made these products, are survivors of gender-based violence. That means 100% of proceeds go towards supporting survivors in building their futures — which might be especially meaningful for a loved one who has been through similar challenges.

Depression and anxiety, amongst other mental health disorders, can take a toll on daily functioning. It isn’t uncommon for seemingly small tasks to feel insurmountable, making hygiene, sleep, and regular meals difficult to manage. Here are some practical gifts you can offer them that will help keep day-to-day tasks on track.

Mental health issues like depression can drastically affect your loved one’s relationship to food and diet. It isn’t uncommon to have a loss of appetite, overeat, or struggle to make healthy food choices when in the depths of despair. I often recommend that my clients consider a meal delivery service to help keep up with their personal care when depressed. Writer Brittany Vargas had a chance to try out Thistle and loved it. “Thistle is a wonderful option for anyone who appreciates how their body feels when it’s well nourished with healthful food,” she explained. Order a few meals to be delivered to their doorstep to help them stay on top of their nutrition during difficult times.

This may be the product I recommend the most to my clients. Magnesium is a magical mineral that is associated with better sleep. I emphasize the importance of sleep hygiene by using the analogy of showering. Not sleeping enough is like not showering regularly, and after a while, you’re no longer functioning the way you need to in our world. Anecdotally, I drink this every night before bed and have found it to be extremely effective at helping me have a deeply restful night of sleep.

When working with a client who is suffering from a substantially decreased appetite due to depression, I encourage them to start drinking protein shakes. It can be an easy way to get some nutrients in. Unfortunately, all too many protein powders have an awful aftertaste. Luckily, Quince organic plant protein isn’t chalky and tastes great. Swanson loved it, noting that vanilla was her favorite flavor, comparing it to classic vanilla ice cream. “This would be good for anyone [who] is looking for a good tasting plant-based protein powder to help them with their health journey,” she explained. You can have this ordered to your loved one’s doorstep for a simple, thoughtful, and helpful offering.

Fun fact: A recent study found that drinking plain water before going to sleep resulted in fewer depressive symptoms in the morning. As with all habits, streamlining things to be easier can help someone who is struggling stay on track with traditional health practices, like staying hydrated. This filtered water bottle from LifeStraw does exactly what it sounds like: it filters the water for you. All you have to do is fill it up from the tap and wait a few moments for your water to be cleaned. The materials are an extra pro, too. “I like that it’s stainless steel and cuts back on the plastic,” shared editor Nicole Bonaccorso. Encourage them to keep this by their bedside for easy hydration.

First, gauge where they are at. Something as basic as asking how they’ve been lately can open the floor to chat about what they’re struggling with. Jumping in with a slew of recommendations might seem like you’re being helpful, but it can actually feel overwhelming to the person struggling. Amy Rice, PhD, PMH-C, a California-based licensed psychologist and cofounder of Golden Gate Counseling Services, noted that firing off solutions can feel dismissive. “What your loved one needs is a listening ear,” she said. A simple yet validating statement could go a long way. “Try saying, ‘That sounds really hard. It makes sense that you’re overwhelmed,’” she suggested.

I’ve noticed that when I feel tempted to offer quick solutions, I’m actually feeling uncomfortable with watching someone I love suffer. This self-awareness has allowed me to pull back from trying to “fix it,” and instead be present with them in their pain. This alone can feel deeply healing.

Dr. Rice also mentioned that practical support is a great move. “Offering specific practical help is the next best step, like bringing dinner over once a week or offering to help with childcare so they can have a few hours back for themselves,” she explained. That’s where something as simple as a meal delivery service or filtered water bottle can have a huge impact.

Rice also encouraged loved ones to take care of themselves. This is another key issue I work on with clients who are worried about people close to them. It’s important that folks pay attention to their energy levels and do something that feels nourishing when they start to feel depleted. I am always celebratory of folks seeking out their own professional care.

Mental health stigma is a huge issue that can lead to folks not seeking out care when they need it. Something every single person can do to combat stigma is to normalize mental health issues. There is nothing wrong with going through a hard time, and the fact is that many of us will navigate hardship to varying degrees throughout our lifetimes. Normalizing can look like sharing openly about how you’re feeling, being unafraid to invite others to share about their feelings candidly, and remaining nonjudgmental all along the way. Through this, others can begin to feel safe opening up about their struggles and asking for help. Reducing mental health stigma creates space for healing and connection.

Whether your mental health is being impacted by the worry you have for a loved one, or if you’re just having a hard time, you are equally deserving of care. All the resources shared in this guide apply to you, too. Set yourself up with care by reaching out to a mental health professional. Make day-to-day life easier with pre-prepared meals and at-home workout equipment.

Something else to keep in mind is the origin of your mental health struggles. If your mental health is beginning to suffer due to the amount of support you’re offering a struggling loved one, it is time to implement boundaries. “It is important to remember that you can’t be everything for someone,” shared Maryland-based psychotherapist Bailey Taylor, M.S., LCPC. She notes that there is a risk of burnout and resentment coming up if you’re overextending yourself.