My Top 3 Favorite Mental Health Apps

We’ve been hearing more and more about different ways people struggling with mental illness can find help, including for many of us, the relatively new telehealth sector.

Telehealth services can include mental health apps, peer support services, virtual apps, as well as real-time interaction with trained clinicians. Some recent studies have highlighted the positive impact of telemedicine services.

My Journey Toward a Better Life

My journey with mental health began a few years ago. In my early 20s, I was diagnosed with chronic depression. I was struggling and feeling completely lost with no one to turn to. I was suffocating in my own depression and felt completely alone.

I had seen my therapist and taken medications, but nothing seemed to be helping. I was desperate for help and decided to turn to the internet. I recalled reading about telemedicine services and how they can help. I decided to give it a shot and began researching my options.

I was hesitant to seek any help online. I wasn’t sure what kind of help I’d get, or if it’d be trustworthy. But because I was desperate, I decided to take a chance. I began looking for mental health support groups and resources. I was quite surprised by the amount of information I discovered.

I found a support group for people with depression, and it was a lifesaver. I was able to connect with other people who were going through  similar struggles. We shared our experiences and provided each other with much-needed support and encouragement. I was also able to find online resources with tips on how to manage my depression.

Online Peer Support 

There are many opportunities online for social support and access to information. People who are geographically separated can connect online. The shyest people may feel more comfortable communicating with others when social cues and social distinctions are not in play. Text-only communications help people who are not comfortable talking face-to-face. People can learn by sharing experiences, discussing ideas, debating information, and engaging in active learning.

Best Mental Health Apps to Support You

During my research, I found a few apps that offered great help to someone struggling with mental health issues. All you need is a high speed internet connection and you are on your way toward healing. I am listing a few below:

1. Talkspace

Talkspace is my top pick because of its comprehensive, all-in-one platform. It offers a variety of therapy options, insurance coverage, and a commitment to privacy.

The app eliminates many of the typical barriers to online mental health treatment. It has a user-friendly interface. The app has an efficient scheduling system for therapy, and a flexible subscription plan.

After completing a brief initial evaluation, your first session will be scheduled with a licensed Talkspace therapist. These therapists offer unlimited messaging in your private therapy “room” five days a week, so there are no long wait times.

If you need to change therapists at any time, you can do so without hesitation.

2. Sanvallo

Sanvello provides a wide range of self-care resources based on cognitive-behavioral therapy principles (CBT). The app’s tool library includes guided meditation sessions, mood, and health-tracking features.

The app contains audio “Guided Journeys” that can assist you in developing important life skills and coping strategies. Sanvello’s self-care tools help you in coping with common stressors along your individual life path.

You can use mood tracking to track your patterns over time. With the app, you can track your thoughts, habits, exercise, sleep, and emotions. With all the data you can see where you can make healthy changes.

3. Headspace

Headspace is one of the most user-friendly apps. The app holds a wealth of resources to assist you in practicing mindfulness.

There are soothing and themed meditations in the Headspace library. It also focuses on activities, movement and dance classes, audio sleepscapes, and more.

The app also includes features to help you deal with everyday challenges. Headspace’s targeted “SOS” sessions are created for anxious people to help them calm down in stressful situations.

You can find a session to meet your specific needs, whether you’re dealing with grief, anger, or stress. Fitness experts on the app can help you stay more present in your body.

You can choose to work on your body from home using breathing, cardio, and movement exercises. Many users enjoy Headspace’s “sleepcasts” (ambient sounds paired with soothing narratives).

 

Telehealth services have had an immeasurable impact on my life. I’ve been able to get the help I need without feeling embarrassed or ashamed. It allowed me to speak with someone who understood my situation. I also felt empowered because I was in charge of my own healing.

The impact of telehealth services on people’s mental health is undeniable. Keep in mind that these services are not a replacement for other methods of professional help. It is critical that you seek professional help if you are struggling with your mental health.

With that said, people looking to manage their mental health may find telemedicine services to be useful resources. These services can offer extra support and resources for people who are already receiving treatment.

They might offer you the help and tools you need for more effective mental health management.