Supporting good mental health and wellbeing is an important goal no matter your circumstance or situation. However, it can sometimes be difficult to find the right resources for your specific needs.
These mental health apps are just a couple of examples of the programs and initiatives using technology to reach out and offer a helping hand.
Emergency Mindset Tools
The Emergency Mindset Tools (EMT) app is designed to protect the mental health of first responders using natural therapies. In particular, it speaks to the unique challenges faced by corrections officers, police officers, nurses, fire and rescue personnel, paramedics and military members.
The EMT app combines natural therapies and technology to support those suffering from sleep issues, anxiety, stress and a variety of other troubles. Sleep support is achieved through calming exercises and guided meditations intended to reduce sleep disturbances and stress. Trauma recovery is offered by walking first responders through the tools they need to cope with trauma, build resilience and reach out to professionals for additional help. Similarly, the app provides day-to-day wellness advice to promote overall well being.
EMT was designed by Queensland Corrections Officer, Phil Hedges, who drew on his own experience with mental health when establishing the programs.
“I’ve experienced firsthand the toll that these careers can have on an individual’s mental health,” he explains.
“The EMT app is my way of giving back and ensuring that those who spend their lives helping everyone else have access to the support they need.”
The EMT team recognises that the irregular work hours of first responders makes it difficult to find time for traditional therapy, and hope that the app can provide around-the-clock support.
There are several different types of therapy offered, including meditation, breathwork and access to traditional avenues, allowing users to choose the method that aligns best with them. Each program is developed with input from mental health professionals and remains anonymous, helping to reduce the stigma around getting help.
To learn more, head to emtapp.co
Youth Chat
Youth Chat is a not-for-profit organisation offering a text-based mental health support service created in conjunction with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including good health and wellbeing (SDG 3), reduced inequalities (SDG 10), sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), and partnerships to amplify impact (SDG 17).
The app offers young Australians a confidential and free support service in 135 different languages. Users are encouraged to message a team member in their preferred language and engage in a confidential chat about the issues most concerning them, whether it be depression and anxiety, drug use, vaping and smoking, sexual identity, body image, or something else entirely. The app is run in collaboration with several community groups and cultural organisations who offer additional support, including helping young people to find safe housing and shelter.
According to David Hayes, Founder of Youth Chat, “our mission aligns closely with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. We recognise the critical role mental health plays in achieving overall health and well-being, and we are committed to reducing inequalities by ensuring our services are accessible to all young Australians.”
Youth Chat strives to promote inclusivity and sustainability, working closely with Babeltext, an Australian multilingual messaging platform enabling businesses to communicate with a diverse customer base.
For more information, head to youthchat.com.au
To read about a pilot program aimed at protecting the mental health of Aussie fishers, click here.