While using mental health phone apps, like Calm or Daylio shouldn’t be used as a replacement to office visits, they can be helpful in monitoring and managing symptoms on a day to day basis. NAMI reports that 1 in 5 Americans live with a mental illness (2019) and per Pew Research Center’s survey of smartphone ownership, 77% of Americans own a smartphone (2018). Mental health phone apps can help bridge the gap between technology and access to mental health treatment. There are a variety of phone apps that are geared toward mental health; from managing stress to bipolar disorder. These apps are available in the iOS and Google Play stores at little to no cost. Some apps incorporate the use of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) or provide coping and mindfulness strategies while others offer methods to track moods, behaviors, and sleep. Some apps even provide forums to connect with others who are experiencing similar symptoms. Mood tracking can be especially helpful in monitoring the benefits of medications. We have compiled a list of phone apps and posted it in the Resource section of our website. Each app comes with a description of what is provided and offered. Check out the list and see what you think!

References:

National Alliance on Mental Illness. (2019). Mental health by the number. Retrieved from https://www.nami.org/Learn-More/Mental-Health-By-The-Numbers.

Pew Research Center. (2018). Mobile Fact Sheet. Retrieved from http://www.pewinternet.org/fact-sheet/mobil