For people struggling with mental health, the journey can seem like a lonely and daunting one. Cultural and social stigmas often keep people from addressing their issues and seeking the help they might need. Getting the assistance of licensed social workers, therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists should be the first option when those in crisis need a hand.
However, in-person therapy sessions can be costly, and scheduling can be difficult for people working multiple jobs or in need of childcare, for example. These setbacks often add to the already stressful feelings they are experiencing and create barriers to getting the help they need.
Thankfully, technology is good for more than posting selfies on the ‘gram. You can actually get mental health assistance at your fingertips.
While we will always suggest that you seek expert advice for any mental health issues, these three apps can take the shame and hurdles away from getting help, and make the journey to a healthy peace of mind a safe one.
01
The Safe Place
The Safe App is one of the only mental health apps created solely for people of color. After surviving her own bout with mental health issues and suicide attempts, Jasmin Pierre created the app to spread awareness about mental health in the Black community. The Safe App features Black mental health statistics, inspirational Black quotes, self-care tips, breathing techniques and more.
Photo Credit: iTunes
02
MindShift CBT
If you’re someone who battles with anxiety and depression, the MindShift CBT app may be able to help. What makes the app great is that it uses scientifically proven strategies based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to help you learn to relax, develop more effective ways of thinking, and use active steps to regain control of your anxiety.
Photo Credit: iTunes
03
MY3 – Support Network
Designed by the Mental Health Association of New York City, MY3 is for those who may be battling with suicidal thoughts and urges. The app seeks to prepare users to help themselves and give them the ability to reach out to others when they are feeling suicidal. Users can set-up three emergency contacts—perhaps a relative, friend, and doctor—who become instantly accessible with the tap of a button. From there, they can create a safety plan in the app, listing warning signs, coping strategies, helpful distractions and places of comfort.
If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts, there are resources to help you. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for you or your loved ones. You can call directly at 1-800-273-8255.
