Mental Health Apps: How to find the right one for you

Changes in your emotions can be common after a stroke. It is very normal to experience strong emotions after stroke, however these emotional reactions usually get better with time and with support and care from your health professional team.

We know that many people now turn to technology when looking for immediate help with Mental Health issues or even when looking for strategies that may help, such as mindfulness. This is becoming more common, perhaps given the delays in accessing some face-to-face supports these days. With the growth in popularity for apps and digital tools, it can be difficult to know how to find the right one for you.

So, how do you find one that is right for you?

It is still important to talk with your GP and other treating health professionals about any changes in how you are feeling or in your emotions. If you do think that an app or digital tool might be something you would like to try, the StrokeLine team always recommend you speak with your surrounding health professionals before purchasing any apps, as they would have a better understanding of your needs. It is also important to look out for apps that are free to purchase, but involve further payments once downloaded. These can be expensive and may not always provide the help you need.

The Black Dog Institute, an Australian research institute for mental health, has created a blog with some tips on what to look for when finding a mental health app: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/news/coronavirus-digital-mental-health-tools-that-can-help/

Like all treatment, it is important to look for apps that have evidence based research behind them, and that have been developed or created by health professionals or those with some mental health experience. We know that only a small percentage have any kind of research data to support their use.

LifeLine also has a list of tools and apps to help manage your day-to-day here: https://toolkit.lifeline.org.au/articles/resources

You may also find some suggestions for mental health apps on this community forum post on Beyond Blue: https://forums.beyondblue.org.au/t5/staying-well/mental-health-apps/m-p/18460

If you were seeking further support, the Black Dog Institute have a list of supports available here: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/emergency-help/.

Knowing what to do when you are worried about someone is really important but remember if you or someone close to you is in distress or immediate danger, please call 000 as soon as possible.

There is also a great article on ways to help people you are worried about here: https://www.blackdoginstitute.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/How-to-help-when-youre-worried-about-someones-mental-health-fact-sheet.pdf.

All the services discussed here are there to support you when you need them, so do consider calling, texting or looking at their websites if you need extra support.

The StrokeLine team can also help you find the support and services you need, whether you are a stroke survivor, carer, or family member. Call 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. StrokeLine is available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm, AEST.

Otherwise please call LifeLine (13 11 14) for 24/7 crisis support or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) for 24/7 support.