5 Free Stress-Busting Apps

Feeling a little stressed out? There’s an app for that.

Careers in health and social care can be extremely rewarding but like many other jobs, things can get a little stressful.

Even though we might not be able to prevent stress from happening, there are a variety of ways in which we can manage it without allowing our feelings to consume us. These include the usual activities such as exercise, planned ‘me’ time, or time management strategies.

However, many of us have access to additional resources for dealing with stress through a wide array of apps that are freely available for most smartphones and tablets.

When it comes to choosing apps, we recommend that you download and use those that have been assessed by the NHS for the best outcome and for your own safety.

Here are 5 free apps that have been assessed by the NHS for managing stress:

• My Possible Self: The Mental Health App. You can use this app to track your mood and identify the things that trigger or relieve stress in your life. There are also 10 learning modules designed to help you manage your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

• SilverCloud. Usually available via an NHS referral, this app offers free 8-week courses online to help with managing stress, anxiety and depression. 

• Stress & Anxiety Companion. Using breathing exercises, calming music and games that help to relax the mind, this app is perfect for managing stress on-the-go.

• Thrive. This app helps you manage your thoughts and emotions, using the latest computerised Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) methods.

• Togetherall. Sometimes we just need to talk to others to help us cope. This app provides an online community forum for group or 1-2-1 sessions with trained professionals.

Recognising that you are stressed and getting help with managing these feelings can help reduce or even prevent the development of serious illness or unhealthy coping mechanisms such as excessive drinking or smoking.

If you’re still finding it hard to cope, help is available.

You can refer yourself to an NHS psychological therapies service for free here or you can find information and resources for managing stress through the mental health charity, Mind, here.