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No need to wait: Valuable digital resources to help support mental health
The need for mental health support is at an all-time high. Yet unfortunately, access to that support is at an all-time low.
Due to the pandemic, mental health professionals have been inundated with new – and existing – patients. That means many are waiting months to see anyone. But the fact is, people need help now, not later.
Luckily, there are some great digital mental health resources that can offer tremendous support for people now, while they wait for a psychology appointment.
So here we share our top picks.
But first, what are digital mental health resources?
Digital mental health resources provide direct and accessible support for those struggling with their mental health and wellbeing. Resources include, but are not limited to, smart phone apps, and online programs, peer support and helpful information.
What makes these resources so great? They’re accessible, flexible around one’s schedule – and either free or only for a small cost.
Smartphone apps
HeadGear
HeadGear calls itself the ‘fitness app for your mental health’.
This app guides you through a 30-day mental fitness challenge to build resilience and wellbeing. The challenges are only 5-10 minutes per day and aim to reduce and manage stress, improve sleep and help users connect better with others.
This app gets our tick of approval as it’s completely free – and scientifically backed.
MindGauge
Keeping track of, and recognising, mental health symptoms can be helpful for many to stay mentally balanced. That’s where MindGauge can be useful.
Through quizzes and tools, the app measures stress, sleep, resilience, mental health symptoms, psychological strength and overall wellbeing.
It’s also free and research based. Another tick of approval from us!
MoodMission
Without guidance, it’s often hard to know the coping strategies that actually work to combat negative feelings.
That’s where MoodMission can help. Starting with a questionnaire, the app gets to know the user. It then suggests some evidence-based coping strategies one can adopt in their daily lives. A great way to discover new and better ways to manage stress, low moods and anxiety.
For the many strategies it provides, the app is relatively cheap at only $7.99.
Online peer support
Beyond Blue Online Forums
Sometimes hearing from others in a similar mental space can make many feel less alone.
The Beyond Blue Online Forums are dedicated spaces for individuals with varying mental health struggles to start group conversations via message posts.
The forums are safe, supportive and moderated by mental health professionals. And they can be accessed 24/7.
Check out Beyond Blue Online Forums
eGrow Group
The Grow Program is a face-to-face support group for those looking to develop and maintain good mental health. And the eGrow Group is its online version.
The 2-hour meetings are a chance for members to share their lived experiences and offer support to one another in a safe, caring and confidential manner.
Joining a group is free. And no referral or diagnosis is necessary.
Online programs
moodgym
moodgym is a training program for the mind. Its aim is to help people prevent – and manage – symptoms of anxiety and depression.
The scientifically backed program involves five modules based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Each includes information, interactive activities, workbooks and personalised feedback.
It’s designed for users to complete anytime, anywhere – and at their own pace.
MyCompass
MyCompass allows users to create a self-help program that aligns with their mental health journey.
With 14 expert-led interactive activities, individuals can learn the skills and strategies to make positive changes in their life.
They can also track their progress and learn to identify when things are going off course, and how to get back on track.
And this list is only the beginning
There are plenty more digital mental health resources out there. Many align with the ever-present need for lockdown-specific psychological support.
Seeing therapy inaccessibility first-hand, our very own psychologist, Dr Debra Campbell, wanted to help where she could. So for a limited time, she is offering her new mental health support book ‘How to Be Your Own Hero’ FREE for everyone.
So if you, or someone you know, might benefit from an professional mental health resource, you can download Dr Debra’s book here.