Phone apps to monitor your mental wellness

Mental wellness deserves a lot more attention that it currently has, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19. This is substantiated by reports by The Straits Times which indicates a spike in family violence and a surge in mental health issues since the circuit breaker kicked in on 7 April last year. (Cheon, 2020)

People are unaware of the importance of taking care of one’s mental wellness since the effects are not as apparent as physical issues, which are more visible to the naked eye. Furthermore, social stigma has prevented open discourse in our community, forcing those who are plagued with mental illness to hide their issues. Therapy and counselling is also not accessible to everyone due to its high cost.

However, the advent of technology has rendered it possible for us to pay more attention to our mental wellness in the comforts of our own homes with the following phone applications.

Moodkit

Available on Apple and Android, Moodkit is voted ‘Best Overall’ by Healthline due to its evidence-based information and suggestions and vast library of activities to improve your mood and eliminate negative thoughts. A journal is also built-in to track your progress.

It is rated 4 out of 5 stars as some users have complained about technical issues.

Headspace

For something a little simpler, download Headspace, a meditation app with standalone courses to guide you to live more mindfully. This includes dealing with distractions and coping with unhealthy cravings.

To subscribe, you can either choose between a monthly bill of S$12.99 or an annual bill of S$69.99. Students are entitled to a promotion of S$9.9 per year. Before paying, do note that you are entitled to a 14-day free trial.

iBreathe

A similar app to Headspace, but free, iBreathe is a user-friendly app for breathing exercises. Deep and slow breaths can ‘trick’ the body into escaping its built-in fight-or-flight response, transitioning the mind and body to a state of zen.

Talkspace

Perhaps going solo is not the most effective remedy to improve your mental wellness. Fret not as Talkspace is a messaging app that connects you to mental health professionals and therapists 24/7.

At a weekly subscription fee of S$65, you are entitled to contact your counselor at any time via the chat room. In addition, you can schedule live video calls with them.

Although Talkspace is the most expensive option on the list, it is worth noting that online therapy is cheaper than a physical one. This also triumphs physical therapies as it is available 24/7.

Better Stop Suicide

A free app to curb suicidal thoughts, Better Stop Suicide has a vast library of recorded audio to relieve stress and provide encouragement. These audio articles are designed by professionals with psychological techniques to effectively help those who are plagued with suicidal thoughts.