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The holidays can be joyful for many, but stressful and lonely for others. Those who have lost loved ones can find this time of year particularly depressing, as they feel the absence of these people at this time.

Some people also suffer from clinical depression throughout the year, and this illness can be more acute during the holiday season. No matter what the cause, you may find it challenging to decide what you can do for someone who is feeling down at this time.

Below are some suggestions for some thoughtful presents you can give to someone who is suffering during Christmas.

HOME-BAKED GOODS

There is nothing quite like Mom's apple pie. Home-baked goods just hit the spot, and they are so much better than anything you can buy that is already made.

Spend an afternoon or two baking, and you are bound to cheer up those who receive your tasty treats. Also, sugar may actually make a depressed person feel a bit better based on the effect it has on moods.

MANICURE, PEDICURE OR MASSAGE

People respond to touch, and it has a very healing effect. Consider giving someone a certificate to get a spa service such as a manicure, pedicure or massage.

This nice present will provide a way for the depressed person to relax and to get a bit of pampering. Almost anyone feels a bit better after this kind of special treatment.

LIGHT-HEARTED MOVIES

Sometimes it's fun to escape into a funny and warm-spirited movie. Certain classics such as "It's a Wonderful Life" and "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," for example, just make you feel good when you watch them. Consider giving someone one of these DVDs or a gift membership to Netflix.

STARBUCKS CARD

If the person who is feeling blue likes coffee, then you may want to give that person a Starbucks card. That way, he or she can get enjoy a great cup of coffee while also having a reason to get out of the house and get around people.

JOURNAL

Sometimes it's helpful to just get something off of your chest. A nice journal serves as a wonderful present, and it may also be a tool for a depressed person to use to start working through what is on his mind. There are so many options to choose from, and you can even consider getting a journal that includes inspirational quotes.

MUSIC

Music can be incredibly uplifting, no doubt. If you know what the person you are getting a gift for enjoys, then take a stab at selecting something he will like. Another option, though, is to give the person a gift card to iTunes or to a music store since taste in music can be so personal.

TIME AND ATTENTION

One of the best things you could give a depressed person is some of your time and attention. While people who are depressed may not be open to taking calls or seeing others, you can at least reach out and make yourself available. You may be surprised and actually get to spend some time with this person. If, however, the person is not up for it, your efforts will still be appreciated.

In conclusion, the holidays can be very tough on some people. One way you can give is to be sensitive to loved ones, neighbors or colleagues who may be down during this time and try to do something thoughtful for that person. You may be helping far more than you realize.

Learn more about this author, Ann E. Smith.
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