According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, there are 322 million people across the globe who suffer from depression. Many of them go without treatment for a variety of reasons such as lack of funds, fear, or just not knowing they need help in the first place. Many people are too embarrassed because of the stigma of mental health illness. There are a few different types of depression too such as major depressive disorder, premenstrual depression, persistent depression, postpartum depression, and bipolar depressive disorder.
Mental Health Apps
In some cases, people do not get help for depression because they do not have the motivation or strength to get up and go see a therapist or doctor. Many people who suffer from depression have such severe symptoms that they do not even want to get out of bed, let alone get dressed and go somewhere. So, what can we do if we do not want to or cannot go see a therapist? Luckily, there are many mental health apps that can help you without even having to leave your bed.
What’s Up?
The app, which is free, begins by assessing your mental health with a questionnaire and then suggests certain games and exercises to guide you on your path. Some of the features include cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), healthier education, improving thought patterns, breathing exercises, logging good and bad habits, and a personal diary.
Pacifica
This free app is beneficial for depression as well as any other type of mental health disorder. You can keep track of your activities from the first time you use the app and uses CBT, behavioral patterns, and relaxation techniques. The app helps you set goals and has a peer support group and community.
Catch It
To deal with depression, anger, anxiety, and other feelings and emotions, the Catch It app has three sections. First you record your mood (catch it) and how strong it is. Then you look at the situation differently and reflect on it (check it). Finally, in the third section you describe what would be more helpful in changing the mood (change it). The moods are kept in a diary and you will be able to keep track of changes.
Virtual Hope Box
With hundreds of short activities, this app is great for people on the go who just need a distraction or mood booster. There are meditation tracks, breathing exercises, puzzles, quotes, and even an activity planner. You can personalize it by adding photos and other significant items that help you feel happy.
Happify
If you want to feel happier, this app can help, and it is absolutely free. You start with a questionnaire that guides you through exercises and games that can help. It also encourages physical activity. The app is based on scientific facts and helps you plan goals, gives you physical activities to do, and tracks your progress.
MoodTools
This free app is helpful for those with depression, anger management, anxiety, and other issues. You can learn how to identify and change unhealthy thought patterns, engage in activities that encourage healthy attitudes, and teaches you to self-monitor with a thought diary. The app uses CBT and also encourages talking to a therapist if needed.
Reaching Out
Regardless of whether or not you have used or are using a mental health app, sometimes we just need to talk to someone who knows what we are going through and is not biased in any way. Talking to a friend or family member may be uncomfortable for both of you so it can be beneficial to try talking to a professional. At BetterHelp, there are over 2,000 licensed mental health professionals ready to help you 24/7/365 and no appointment is needed. In fact, you don’t even have to leave your home.
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