The recent suicides of Chris Cornell (Soundgarden) and Chester Bennington (Linkin Park) have brought mental health issues to the fore. And it’s an important discussion to have that most don’t want to talk about. Physical diseases are considered real, whereas mood disorders are something you can snap out of. But the truth is you can’t. Because if you could, you would’ve done so ages ago.
We have our phones with us all the time and usually only use them in short bursts – all of these apps require only a few minutes a day and are discrete enough to be used anywhere. Here are the best apps to help with depression and anxiety.
Disclaimer: I am not saying that these apps are going cure anything or are a substitute for medication or therapy, but they may help.
A diary and mood tracker with none of the awkward typing
Daylio is a mood tracker with a difference. Using only icons you can easily and quickly track your moods. No need to type anything! Add in different activities and protect your entries via pin. The monthly overview really helps you identify when and which activities help improve your mood.
ICYMI: The best FREE apps to use everyday to improve your life
Break the cycle of negative thoughts with these step-by-step tools
Pacifica is an app that is not overwhelming and breaks up all the tips into easy manageable steps. Each step will take time and there are no quick fixes. Focus on meditation, your health, mood and more.
Identify triggers & create a safety plan
Mood Tools offers a few different ways to deal with depression and anxiety. From keeping a mood diary, doing activities and coming up with a safety plan, this app has something for every headspace. They also offer a collection of inspiring videos like guided meditations and TedTalks.
Tip: listen to an inspiring TedTalk or a guided meditation first thing in the morning to set the tone for the day.
Available for Android and iOS.
SEE ALSO: Learn to meditate for free
A 360 degree app suite to help you alleviate symptoms of depression
There’s a collection of 13 apps from Northwestern University called IntelliCare that have been scientifically proven to help alleviate symptoms of depression. The apps are freely available on Google Play and each app in the suite deals with a different aspect to help with depression.
From daily mantras, to a negative thought catcher, an exercise app as well as an app that ensures you get enough sleep, you’ll find these apps fit easily into your daily routine and only take a few minutes per day.
My favourite app is Boost Me which provides small tasks that will help you feel better. You can also track your moods before and after the activity.
Are there any apps that you use to help with anxiety, depression or general well being? Let me know in the comments below.
