The number of people who suffer from anxiety and mental health disorders has increased tremendously over the past few years. As a society we are working towards being more open about talking through these issues, finding ways to cope that are both healthy and fulfilling, and giving people the help they need. Although we have come so far, there is still so much more to do. Fortunately, almost everyone has a smartphone these days and help is literally at your fingertips. After very little research, we found some amazing apps that help with anxiety and mental health. Check these out if you’re looking for some tips, assistance, and ways to cope with your anxiety.
Headspace
If you’ve ever done any app research for anxiety and mental health, Headspace was probably the first one to pop-up. After nine years of business, Headspace has become one of the most well-known apps for anxiety, meditation, and de-stressing after a long day. Through guided meditation, articles, videos, and much more, Headspace has a mission to give you a happier and healthier life by starting from within. I personally have used Headspace for over two years now, and after creating a habit of using the app, I have found my anxiety levels to be much lower, and my openness to reach for help when I need it to be the healthiest it’s ever been. Highly suggested by many people who deal with continual anxiety, depression, and other mental illnesses, we trust Headspace is a great tool to use.
Calm
Another great app that many people use on a daily basis is Calm. Perfect for hushing those 100mph thoughts and giving you the sleep you deserve, Calm is great for so many things. If you’re into meditation, they have guided meditation practices with sound and video. If you’re looking for something to lull you to sleep at night, try listening to their ‘sleep stories,’ read by many well-known voices- they’re sure to rock you to the best slumber ever. If you tend to hold tension in your body, watch the ‘calm body’ videos on stretching and movement. The perfect thing to do in the morning or after a long day at work. I have used Calm many times when I had trouble sleeping, and I felt like a kid again being sung to sleep.
Talk Life
We all know life can be tough at times. We all go through things that are difficult to deal with, talk about, and cope with. You may have amazing friends and family you run to when those things happen, but If you don’t, or you’re just not comfortable talking to the people you know, Talk Life is the app for you. Talk Life is a peer support app where you can post about the things that are hard and find other people going through the same thing. Share stories, tips, and even advice with those on the app. You may make a friend out of it, or be able to help others going through a tough time. Talk about what’s going on, get the help and support you need. It really couldn’t be easier.
Better Help
If you are looking for professional counseling, Better Help is your answer. What’s amazing about an app like Better Help is that it’s really for every type of person. Being young, busy, and working a full-time job, it can be hard to find time to go to a professional counselor and talk. On top of that, It can be incredibly expensive- especially if you don’t have insurance! Better Help’s mission is to fix that exact problem and be what we all need in a way that is comfortable, accessible, and attainable for everyone. Anytime, anywhere, anyone can reach out to a professional on the app and get the counseling you need. Talk about what’s going on in your life, tell them what you need, or just talk about your day. Many people with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, along with another slew of mental health issues, use Better Help on a daily basis. Of course, this is no cure, just the extra help you may need.
Worry Watch
Worry Watch is one of my favorite apps to use when dealing with loads of anxiety. Being a writer, I enjoy documenting my life, and looking back on what happened. Worry Watch is like that but in a digital form. Record what is bothering you, view your anxiety patterns, reflect on what took place and why, and take action. It’s great to know what is causing our anxiety and worry so we can better combat them the next time we experience it. Other times, it’s good to be able to get out all of our worries and look back to see that maybe it was something we had no control over, or it was something we didn’t need to worry about. Having a record of what goes on in our hearts and minds is great to bring to a professional as well. It lets them know that you pay attention to yourself and are looking for answers, and healthy ways to cope.
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No matter what you’re going through there is no one answer that will work for everyone. Everyone is different, everyone’s experiences are different, and everyone’s needs are, too. Your feelings are valid, valuable, and in need of being heard by those who can help. If you’re afraid to reach out, look to these apps for help when you’re feeling sad, alone, depressed, or anxious. Take the steps you need today to have a happier and healthier tomorrow. If you use any of these apps and see a positive change, let us know in the comments below. If there are any we missed, sharing is caring- let us know below!
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Feature Image via Emma Craft
