The holiday season is here, and gift-giving is a special way to express love and gratitude.
For narcissistic abuse survivors, this time of year can be a chance to honor those who supported them through their healing journey and to focus on their own self-care.
The first activity mentioned in our ’25 Days of One Small Thing’ is shortlisting the people you want to buy gifts for.
Avoid wasting your time, energy, and money on narcissistic individuals. Cherish those who stood by you throughout the year. Make a list of your supportive friends, relatives or therapists.
Don’t forget to include yourself in the list. Treat yourself to something you’ve always wanted. If there’s nobody to cherish you, do it for yourself.
Gifts don’t have to be expensive; you can do something thoughtful for them. It could be your time or helping with a chore.
If you feel obligated to buy gifts for narcissistic people, consider purchasing something inexpensive and generic.
Here are 10 thoughtful Christmas gift ideas designed with narcissistic abuse survivors in mind.
1. Journals: A Thoughtful Gift Idea for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Journaling is a powerful tool for healing and self-discovery, making it an ideal gift for narcissistic abuse survivors who are reclaiming their sense of self.
Journaling allows survivors of narcissistic abuse to explore their thoughts, emotions, and progress in a safe and private space.
Using guided journal prompts for specific issues or maintaining a bullet journal to track emotions and activities can be profoundly therapeutic.
For survivors recovering from years of gaslighting, journaling transforms fleeting thoughts into tangible realities, helping them process and validate their experiences.
A beautifully designed journal or a set of pre-written journal prompts can make a thoughtful and empowering addition to a Christmas gift basket. Pair it with a set of pens, stickers, or markers to personalize the experience further.
Consider including a journal designed specifically for healing, such as one focused on gratitude, affirmations, or mindfulness.
You can also explore digital journaling apps or printable journal templates as a modern alternative.
By gifting a journal, you’re providing a tool that empowers narcissistic abuse survivors to reflect, heal, and rediscover their voice—one page at a time.
2. Meditation Guides: A Meaningful Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Meditation is a transformative practice that helps narcissistic abuse survivors rebuild their mental resilience and regain control over their thoughts and emotions.
Meditation is known to enhance neuroplasticity, the brain’s ability to form new pathways and adapt to experiences, even in adulthood.
For narcissistic abuse survivors, this means an opportunity to break free from unhealthy mental patterns and foster cognitive healing.
Meditation also improves focus, emotional regulation, and overall well-being, enabling survivors to bounce back from adversity with resilience.
Consider gifting a month-long subscription to a meditation program or app that specializes in guided meditations.
Options like Calm, Headspace, or Insight Timer provide accessible tools tailored to stress relief, self-love, and emotional healing.
The following beginner meditation guide is from Reader’s Digest.
3. Affirmation Cards: A Confidence-Boosting Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Affirmation cards offer narcissistic abuse survivors a simple yet powerful tool to rebuild their self-esteem and create a positive mindset.
Affirmations are a proven way to reprogram the subconscious mind, replacing negative thought patterns with empowering and uplifting beliefs.
For narcissistic abuse survivors, affirmation cards can serve as a daily reminder of their worth, strength, and potential, especially during tough times.
Using affirmation cards involves repeating positive statements while taking deep breaths, which can enhance confidence and foster a renewed sense of self-worth.
These cards are particularly effective on difficult days when positive thoughts are hard to come by.
You can find themed sets for confidence, healing, or self-love, or even create personalized cards tailored to the recipient’s needs.
4. Bath Bombs and Epsom Salt: A Relaxing Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
A soothing bath with bath bombs or Epsom salt is a therapeutic experience that helps narcissistic abuse survivors unwind and rejuvenate.
Research highlights the profound benefits of soaking in a warm bath, especially for those dealing with emotional distress or loneliness.
Neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart explains that baths can provide a sense of comfort, mimicking physical touch, which can be especially beneficial for survivors of narcissistic abuse.
Baths with Epsom salt not only relax muscles but also stimulate the nervous system and promote skin health through gentle exfoliation.
A 2018 study found that daily warm water baths significantly reduce fatigue, stress, and symptoms of depression, making them an ideal self-care ritual.
Including bath bombs or a high-quality Epsom salt blend in a Christmas gift basket is a thoughtful way to offer relaxation and stress relief.
Opt for calming scents like lavender, eucalyptus, or chamomile to enhance the experience.
Pair this gift with spa-like accessories, such as a loofah, bath pillow, or a soothing bath oil.
You might also include a handwritten note with instructions on how to create a serene bath experience.
You can read more about the physical and mental advantages of baths here:
https://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/health-benefits-of-taking-a-bath/
https://www.healthline.com/health/bath-vs-shower#what-is-cleaner
5. Self-Help Books: A Transformative Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Self-help books are invaluable resources for narcissistic abuse survivors, offering guidance, emotional insight, and practical tools for personal growth.
Self-help books provide survivors of narcissistic abuse with a framework to understand and process their emotions. They are an excellent gateway to personal development, inspiring readers to overcome obstacles and rediscover their self-worth.
Books like Atomic Habits by James Clear teach strategies to build positive routines, while Self-Compassion by Dr. Kristin Neff guides readers toward self-kindness and understanding.
For survivors of narcissistic abuse, Dr. Ramani Durvasula’s works are particularly impactful, as they shed light on narcissistic behavior and recovery strategies.
Including one or more of these books in a Christmas gift basket offers not just a thoughtful gift but also a tool for healing and growth.
Whether the recipient is new to self-help or a seasoned reader, these titles provide actionable takeaways and much-needed encouragement.
6. Healing/Therapy Program Subscription: A Lifeline for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Investing in a healing or therapy program is one of the most impactful gifts for narcissistic abuse survivors, offering professional support and structured recovery.
Therapy can be a significant financial burden, but the benefits are invaluable, especially for survivors of narcissistic abuse. Gifting a subscription to a healing program or therapy service is a powerful way to show support and compassion.
Services like BetterHelp and Talkspace offer flexible and accessible therapy plans that cater to individual needs.
For a more specialized approach, Dr. Ramani’s program, Taking Yourself Back: Healing from Narcissistic & Antagonistic Relationships, is a highly recommended resource tailored specifically for survivors of narcissistic abuse.
These programs provide survivors with tools to process trauma, rebuild self-esteem, and set healthy boundaries.
They can serve as a safe space for healing and growth, making them a thoughtful addition to any Christmas gift basket.
7. Aromatherapy Products: A Calming Christmas Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Aromatherapy products are a versatile and soothing addition to any Christmas gift basket, perfect for survivors of narcissistic abuse seeking relaxation and focus.
Aromatherapy offers more than just pleasant scents—it can profoundly impact mood, productivity, and overall well-being.
For survivors of narcissistic abuse, certain fragrances can become comforting anchors, helping them establish calming routines or focus during challenging moments.
Aromatherapy candles, diffusers, or roller blends make thoughtful gifts, offering a small but significant reminder of self-care throughout the day.
When gifting aromatherapy products, consider including a guide explaining the benefits of different scents.
For example, eucalyptus is excellent for clearing the mind, while jasmine can uplift the spirit.
For additional research-backed benefits, articles on the impact of aromatherapy on mental health is given below.
https://naturalnicheperfume.com/blog/aromatherapy-and-psychiatric-disorders/
https://www.wondermind.com/article/aromatherapy-for-mental-health/
8. Weighted Blankets: A Cozy and Comforting Christmas Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Weighted blankets are more than just cozy; they provide a sense of security and comfort, making them an ideal gift for survivors of narcissistic abuse seeking relief from anxiety and sleep struggles.
For survivors of narcissistic abuse, the sense of safety and comfort that a weighted blanket offers can be especially beneficial, providing a much-needed break from stress and overthinking.
If you’re gifting someone with difficulty sleeping or managing anxiety, a weighted blanket is a thoughtful and practical choice.
When choosing a weighted blanket as a gift, make sure to consider the weight, which should be about 10% of the recipient’s body weight.
You can read more benefits of weighted blankets here:
https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/do-weighted-blankets-work
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/best-weighted-blankets/weighted-blanket-benefits
9. Coloring Books, Labyrinth Games, and Puzzles: Fun and Mindful Christmas Gift Ideas for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Coloring books, labyrinth games, and puzzles are more than just fun activities—they’re mindfulness tools that help survivors of narcissistic abuse focus on the present and relax their minds.
Mindfulness is a powerful practice for survivors of narcissistic abuse, and engaging in creative or puzzle-based activities can be a simple way to incorporate mindfulness into daily life.
Whether it’s coloring intricate designs, solving puzzles, or navigating labyrinth games, these activities can serve as effective stress-relievers and grounding exercises.
By focusing on these tasks, the mind can shift away from intrusive thoughts, allowing survivors to re-center and experience a sense of calm and control.
For those who enjoy a little challenge or creative expression, a fun and engaging activity can be both relaxing and rewarding.
10. Your Time: The Most Priceless Gift for Narcissistic Abuse Survivors
Sometimes, the most valuable gift you can give is your time.
For narcissistic abuse survivors, offering your time to loved ones—or taking the time for yourself—can be the most meaningful present this holiday season.
Gift-giving doesn’t always have to come with a price tag.
One of the most precious gifts you can offer is your time—whether it’s spending quality moments with loved ones, helping with chores, or simply being present.
For survivors of narcissistic abuse, giving and receiving time in the form of support and companionship can mean so much more than material gifts.
Additionally, don’t forget to prioritize yourself this holiday season.
Taking time for self-care, such as enjoying a quiet moment to relax, taking a walk, or even treating yourself to some peace and quiet, is a wonderful gift you can give to yourself.
Conclusion
Gift-giving is a chance to show love and gratitude—but for survivors of narcissistic abuse, it’s also an opportunity to celebrate resilience and healing.
Use this list to find thoughtful gifts that empower, support, and uplift. And don’t forget to treat yourself this holiday season—you’ve earned it.
