There are few things in life as uncomfortable as being sick. When you’re feeling under the weather, you want nothing more than to be surrounded by the support of your family and loved ones. Time together paired with some soup and warm tea is enough to make anyone feel a little bit better.
Jump ahead to these sections:
- What is an ‘Open When’ Letter?
- Tips for Writing an ‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter
- ‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter Ideas
- ‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter Examples
However, sometimes life gets in the way. Sometimes we can’t be with the ones we love, even when we’re not feeling the best. Whether you’re separated by distance or something else, an ‘Open When’ letter lets you be there when it matters most.
Creating an ‘Open When’ letter for sick days ensures that your special someone never feels alone when they’re under the weather. To get started, here are a number of ‘Open when you’re sick’ letter ideas and examples to spark inspiration
Tips for Writing an ‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter
While this is an easy craft to do yourself, there are some tips that help you go the extra mile. Knowing how to care for someone from far away isn’t always easy, and technology can only get you so far.
1. Customize your letter
First, there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to these types of letters. The best part about ‘Open When’ letters is that they’re easy to customize. While it’s great to find examples online, avoid copying other letters that might sound off compared to how you usually speak.
You don’t need to be overly formal or concerned with spelling and grammar. This isn’t an assignment for English class, it’s a letter to someone you love. Write from the heart and don’t be afraid to be casual.
2. Decorate your letter
Your letter can be as plain or extravagant as you’d like. Again, think about the recipient. Would they appreciate a bit of color on a bad day? Taking the time to add extra DIY elements to your letter makes it extra special.
You could use paint, markers, stickers, special stationery, or any creative elements to help your letter stand out. While not necessary, knowing someone went out of their way to create something special is a kind gesture.
3. Make a series
Don’t limit yourself to an ‘Open when you’re sick’ letter. If time allows, create an entire series. If you’re separated by distance, your loved one likely will experience many different emotions and events while you’re not near each other.
These letters might be simple, but they enable you to “be there” in spirit for life’s biggest moments and challenges. This is a way for you two to feel a little bit closer, no matter how much distance lies between you. Not sure what else to include? Here are some ideas that align with ‘Open when you’re sick:’
- Open when you’re happy
- Open on a bad day
- Open when you need a pep talk
- Open when you can’t sleep
- Open when you’re excited
Don’t limit yourself to these ideas. There are so many things that you can do with this ‘Open when’ letters concept!
4: Include a gift
Lastly, consider including a gift. A get well gift makes everything a little bit brighter, and it doesn’t’ have to be fancy. You could turn your letter into an entire box to fit a large gift, or choose one of these smaller options:
- Gift card (or eGift card)
- Digital download
- Photos
- Stickers or stationary
- Small candy
- Food delivery gift card
- Personalized artwork
These little extras are just what anyone needs on a sick day. Illness brings us down, but a surprise turns the whole day around.
‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter Ideas
It pays to be a bit creative when you’re creating something special for a loved one. Don’t limit yourself to just a letter. These ideas help transform your ‘Open when you’re sick’ letter into something truly memorable.
1. Favorite memory
Remind your loved one of a brighter time. In your letter, share your favorite shared memory. You can write it from your perspective like a journal entry or create a narrative. Either way, you’re sure to bring your letter recipient back to a better time.
2. Playlist
Another idea is to put together a special playlist. This can include your favorite songs, throwback hits, or positive tunes. Create a digital playlist and share a link, or just write out all of your song picks in the letter. This unique idea is sure to lift their spirits.
3. Movie day
While you probably can’t be there in-person for a movie day, you can still make a movie day for your loved one with your letter. Include some ideas for the perfect sick day movie session, as well as your favorite simple movie snack recipes.
To take this up a level, add a digital download or gift card so your loved one can stream movies instantly. Thanks to technology, creating a virtual movie day has never been easier.
4. Care package
To help someone who’s feeling under the weather, put together a small care package. All you need is a small box or container and the right selection of care items.
Pack together some medicine, cozy socks, tissues, and any other things that help you feel better. Think of what you want on a sick day and go from there.
5. Self-care
Self-care is more than just a trend. It’s a way to put yourself first. When you’re not feeling well, it’s essential that you take time to unwind and refresh. Including a few self-care suggestions and items with your ‘Open When’ letter helps your recipient get better a little bit faster.
Include things like bath supplies, fancy soaps, facial masks, and soothing oils. You can also share what helps you unwind when you’re not feeling well. These small steps could make all the difference in someone’s day.
6. Coffee or tea
Finally, treat your loved one to a sweet drink when they’re feeling sick. It’s easy to fit single-serve coffee or tea packets in your ‘Open when sick’ letter, so this is a really flexible option.
Just make sure you choose something that lasts a few months—you don’t want it to go bad!
‘Open When You’re Sick’ Letter Examples
Knowing what to say when someone’s sick isn’t always easy. These examples below are to help you find the inspiration you need to create your own ‘Open When’ letter for someone special.
‘Open when sick’ for a significant other
Dear Name. I’m so sorry we can’t be together when you’re feeling under the weather. If we were, I would definitely be making you chicken soup right now—your favorite kind! Since I can’t be there in person, I wanted to remind you how much I love you. I know being sick is hard, and I know you’d rather be up and working right now. It’s okay to rest for a little while. If I know you, you’ll be back in action in no time. Sending you love from afar.
‘Open when sick’ for a friend
Being sick is the worst! I know how hard it is to be stuck in bed, just waiting to feel better. It’s not fun, but I hope I can make your day a little bit brighter. I’m including some of my favorite movie suggestions for your sick-day viewing pleasure. The best way to recover quickly is a movie day, especially one with lots of popcorn. Talk to you soon! Feel better.
‘Open when sick’ for a family member
It’s so hard to be away from home when you’re sick. I’m sending you all of my love (and some tea) to help you today. Try to take it easy today. You deserve some time to yourself when you work so hard every day. Just know I’m thinking of you. Love always.
Be There for the Bad Days
There’s nothing fun about sick days. Having an ‘Open When’ letter to look forward to is a small source of happiness and positivity. When you’re separated from the ones you love, ‘Open When’ letters bring you closer together. It’s important that you’re not just there for the happy moments, but also the difficult times.
Find inspiration in these ‘Open when you’re sick’ ideas above. You don’t need to go over-the-top to create something memorable. A little bit of planning goes a long way, so why not create your own for someone you love?