Working in the media for the past 15 years, I feel like I personally know a lot of the many people who have been made redundant this year. Of course, job losses are far more widespread than just my corner of the world, and financial strain is set to be inescapable for many this Christmas. Add to the annihilation of so many of our livelihoods the closure of many of our favourite creative outlets and the return to right wing politics and trad wives, and a cloudy outlook is cast over the impending summer.

Those who lost their jobs this year face economic hardship and financial angst at a time of high interest rates and rising inflation (an extremely unchill sentence to write) as well as often self-doubt and uncertainty around their future working in industries that are in steep decline (also, not chill). The toll it can take on your confidence can be immense. I’m sure I’m not the only person out there in a ‘I’m too exhausted/burnt out/old/poor for a career pivot’ loop. And to what sector? As a parent, I’m encouraging my children into a trade. As a middle-aged woman working in media? Do as I say, not as I do.

Be kind to those you love living this stressful existence, including with one of these very practical gift ideas.

DIY coffee, like a Moccamaster, $605, a milk frother, $39, or a stovetop espresso, $140

No office, no free coffee machine. Plus, we all know the secret to financial success in this country is giving up your daily cafe-bought flat white! Help your friend or loved one recreate that office vibe from home with a coffee maker. The much-lauded Moccamaster is a stylish addition to any kitchen, or for a cheaper option, I do always love a stovetop espresso topped with a dash of fluffy milk.

Lotto ticket, from $5.60

As the living embodiment of this meme (yet as someone who also rarely buys a ticket), I endorse healthy gambling at this time. You’ll receive extra points from your loved one if you manage to buy them the winning ticket. 

Hayu subscription, from $8.99 a month

Inhaling an iconic TV series you’ve heard much about but didn’t start in its early days requires a certain kind of commitment. Not even a case of Covid can get you through all 15 seasons of RHONY and 14 seasons of RHOBH. 

Earlier this year I had a hysterectomy; at the beginning of my six weeks bedrest I decided I’d watch The Sopranos, a show I’d never seen, but it turned out to be too tense for my poor, sore tummy. So instead I got my sister's Hayu login (I do not approve this message) and she finally got me hooked on Vanderpump Rules – all 11 seasons, followed by The Valley.

It is, quite simply, incredible TV. I cannot recommend it highly enough by way of both entertainment, and by way of feeling better about your own existence (although I did come off bedrest with a strong desire to do tequila shots which did not end well. I am slightly older than Stassi, Jax, Katie and Kirsten et al season 1). 

Anyway, if someone you love has time on their hands, I strongly suggest you give them the gift of Vanderpump Rules. Depending on the state of the job market they may also work their way through the Real Housewife and Below Deck franchises.

Oribe airbrush root spray, $57 available in black, dark brown, light brown, blonde, platinum and red

It’s absolutely not dramatic at all to say that when you’re a middle-aged woman who loses her job, one of the most torturous realities is that you can no longer maintain your six weekly hair appointments. Sure, you can home dye, and, market dependent, it may just get to that, but in the meantime keep your mates spirits high with this spray colour that will help them push those appointments out to three monthly at a pinch. 

Kombucha scoby, $30

Give your beloved povo friend the gift of an endless supply of expensive artisanal fizz. Kombucha really is, like sourdough, the gift that keeps on giving. Before you know it you’ll be able to split your scoby and get creative with your flavours (kawakawa leaves from the bush, free and yum!), filling your days by filling endless vessels with cooled tea. Plus it is of course good for your gut, and trust me when I say I know unemployment can be sore for poor tums. 

Microgreens grow kit, $95

Have you been to the supermarket lately? With a block of cheese currently peaking at $10, it can often feel akin to shopping at one of the luxe boutiques that populate lower Queen Street. And, as with clothing, the cheapest, fast options are usually the worst for your environment and therefore your health. Microgreens are nutritionally rich bundles of goodness that are high in fibre and antioxidants, and can even lower your blood pressure. Need. They are super-easy to grow at home and pop on any cheap DIY meals (toast, eggs) for a sprinkling of health.

DIY facial treatments: Bowie derma roller starter kit, $144; The Facialist ice globes, $79; LED Omnilux contour face mask, $750

Your loved one is going to be deprived of skincare treatments for the foreseeable future, plus hunting for employment in ‘this market’ is likely to age them infinitely. Anything you can provide to help them halt this process and top up on TLC will be greatly appreciated.

HP All-in-One printer, $129

An office perk that can be hard to replicate IRL is a printer. Luckily today’s home models are portable and set to WIFI for easy use. Handy for printing out CVs or positive affirmations to pepper the house with.

Aroha by Hinemoa Elder, $30

Honestly it’s tough out there on the capitalist grind. Allow your loved one to take a minute to be comfortable exactly where they are at this moment.