It has been two years since the COVID-19 pandemic changed the world. People took the time to follow safety protocols, isolate, and adapt to the new normal setting, and today, it does not seem that the virus is going any time soon. Several months of lockdown passed by, and the challenges became overwhelming for the people to bear as cases of mental health illness began to increase due to the fact that the number of positive cases keeps fluctuating, making everything uncertain. International and local health organizations were alarmed by the rising cases of health problems including the rising toll of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety, there are also numerous cases of suicide recorded from different countries and the problem of providing proper health care services also became the major challenge.
Furthermore, people began to find ways how to minimize these problems using the available resources that are not affected by the pandemic. One of those resources is maximizing the use of technology through the use of smartphones and the latest gadgets. Health services went through a new form of transition from face-to-face to online sessions such as telehealth and the use of crisis hotlines. Another popular e-service that went a surge lately is the use of online mental health services through the form of a mobile application. With just one click away, everyone can access health services in the comfort of their home, without risking their safety against the transmission of COVID-19.
What is a Mental Health App?
Mental Health applications are tools that can be used through the means of mobile devices or smartphones. These apps focus on developing the mental health and well-being of the users who can access them through the App Market. There are different kinds of mental health apps and each of them may range in different areas related to stress management, relaxation, sleep, and wellness. Some applications offer therapeutic activities about self-help, self-confidence, and meditation delivered by a mental health professional or a life coach.
Advantages of using Mental Health Apps Each mental health apps have potentials that may appease the public. Some benefits are the following:
Accessibility – mental health apps are accessible and offer convenience since you can easily get them through your phone. This is a good option for people who have difficulties accessing some alternatives for health services during the lockdown.
Convenience – one can access the app anywhere and anytime at your leisure. This is a great tool for people who are busy enough to check other matters that may consume their time.
Engaging – mental health apps are fun to use as it gives not just valuable experience but also learnings about well-being and mental health. People can set their reminders and notifications to remind them to stay engaged with the features.
Affordable – most mental health apps are available for FREE in the app market so people doesn’t have to break their wallet just to get access to the services. Other apps may have paid subscriptions but the features were proven safe and effective for their users.
Top Mental Health Apps for 2021 Here are the 5 mental health apps according to the 8ListPH that can help soothe your well-being and mental health during the pandemic.
Moodfit – is a mental health app designed to help the user to be in mental shape. It tracks the mood and activities which provide important insights and strategies to make the user feel better. Moodfit is available on iOS and Android.
HealthNow – is a collaboration between New Good Feelings and Globe. The organization first launched a suicide hotline HOPELINE in 2012. Soon, they expand the partnership and enter the mobile app industry through HealthNow. HealthNow helps patients to easier consult with the doctor, deliver medicine, and schedule medical appointments without leaving their house. HOPELINE is still available within the app which provides easier access to the service. HealthNow is available on iOS and Android.
Happify – is an app providing games and science-based activities to overcome stress and negative emotions. The games in the apps were made by psychology experts specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy. The app also caters to different kinds of happiness such as building confidence, achieving mindfulness, coping with stress, and overcoming negative thoughts. Happify is available on iOS and Android.
Ten Percent Happier – the app provides guided meditations, talks, videos, and content that are made to help the users be more mindful, improve relationships, sleep better, and be happier for 10 percent. It is a good app for meditation and mindfulness. Ten Percent Happier is available on iOS and Android.
Calm - this app is one of the most popular mental health apps with over 20 million downloads worldwide. The app helps its users to meditate, sleep, and relax by using soft music and providing programs to improve one’s condition throughout the day. The soothing feature and quality made the app win Apple’s App of the Year in 2017. Calm is available on iOS and Android.
Mental Health Apps were designed to address mental health problems easier with convenience, whether users want to learn more about mental health, get in touch with a therapist, track habits and moods, or simply find a new activity to survive the day. However, users must take in mind that these apps are just supplements to improve their well-being and offer assistance, but not a substitution for face-to-face therapy sessions or in-person consultation with a mental health professional.
Do not self-diagnose or self-medicate. Use these apps to improve the quality of our mobile screens and the quality of our life.
References:
- Santos, J. (2021). Mental Health Apps Philippines: 8 Apps to Manage Your Moods. 8List.Ph. https://www.8list.ph/mental-health-apps-philippines/
- The Best Mental Health Apps of 2021. (n.d.). Verywell Mind. Retrieved September 13, 2021, from https://www.verywellmind.com/best-mental-health-apps-4692902