Feelings of grief can fluctuate between depression, anxiety, and even insomnia with no warning at all—making it difficult to navigate everyday life. And in addition to adjusting to a new normal, some people may find it difficult to adjust their identity as an individual without their loved ones. If you’re unsure how to reach out to a grieving person, sympathy gifts are a great way to show love, concern, and support. “A sympathy gift is a good way to let someone know that you are available for support when needed, without invading their need for space,” says Anna Travers, LMHC. Here are the best sympathy gifts on the market, according to a licensed mental health counselor. It’s 6 inches tall and weighs just under 1.5 pounds. Since the candle is flameless, it is much safer for kids or teenagers. Price at time of publication: $27 While the messages are pre-written, there is an option to leave some notes blank to write your own message. Price at time of publication: $45 The lamp is battery operated, so you can place it anywhere you like without worrying about proximity to an outlet. Price at time of publication: $30 Price at time of publication: $55 The chain is 20 inches but can be shortened to 18 inches. Price at time of publication: $37 This gift set comes with a LED flicker candle and a card that explains the meaning of a cardinal. It’s vanilla-scented and made with real wax. Since it’s flameless, it’s safer for children or for keeping on throughout the day. The bracelet includes four charms, but the main one has an inscription that reads “My sister was so amazing, God made her my angel.” This makes a great sympathy gift or on a holiday or birthday anniversary after a sister has passed. Price at time of publication: $13 The chimes are made with rust-resistant anodized aluminum and weatherproof pine, so you can hang them inside or outside. The chimes are 32 inches in length and come in a black gift box with tissue paper for easy gifting. Price at time of publication: $27 The writings in the book are crafted to spark happy memories and good thoughts of the person who has passed. Price at time of publication: $17 The verse from Psalm 91:4 is painted on the inside of the bowl, and it comes in a gift box for easy gifting. It also comes with 35 blank cards for you to use with the bowl. Price at time of publication: $59 The bracelet can be slightly customized and the beads can be arranged in the morse code for, “until we meet again.” The bracelet is handmade and held together with a lobster style clasp. Price at time of publication: $35 Depending on how much you want to spend, the company can print it and frame it for you, or you can download the map and print it yourself. Price at time of publication: $25 Each lantern lights up using AA batteries, and there are four different style options to choose from. Price at time of publication: $56 The set comes with a greeting card, and the buyer can choose one of five box options. Selections include candles, scented lotions, and bath salts. Price at time of publication: $30 You can also choose from various greeting cards to add to the box. The company does all the assembling, packaging, and shipping for you to make gifting easier. Price at time of publication: $9 The blanket itself is soft and plush, making it a good go-to in cooler weather. You can even personalize it with handwriting from a letter or note. Price at time of publication: $37 This one is made specifically for those who have lost their husbands, and it comes with 224 pages to fill as the user pleases. Price at time of publication: $32 For an option that’s more physically comforting, the Custom Bereavement Blanket (view at Etsy) is great for both adults and kids. And if you’re looking for a sympathy gift that’s unique, the Constellation Map (view at Etsy) is a creative choice that can be customized for the recipient.
Meaningful Connection
A gift that is specific to the relationship, like a father-daughter or spouse relationship, may be more meaningful than something broad or generic. Wind chimes are good for someone who was known to enjoy the outdoors, while a jewelry option may be good for someone who lost a person that had been part of their everyday lives, since jewelry can be worn daily and serve as a consistent comfort.
Creates Calm and Comfort
The gift should be soothing and create calm when feelings of grief or even fear surface. Some people find comfort in scents, nature, animals, or self-care routines such as taking a bath. A good sympathy gift will enhance what someone is naturally drawn to for comfort.
Why Trust Verywell Mind
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with over 15 years’ experience working with clients to improve mental and emotional health, Mary K. Tatum understands the importance of finding quality resources and techniques that work for each person. Not everyone will have the same kind of healing journey; therefore, having lots of options to choose from is vitally important in creating a lifestyle that combats mental illness and promotes health and wellbeing.
