There’s an App for That


theres_an_app_for_thatThere’s an app for everything, and there are plenty of health related apps for exercise and diet — as well as mental health apps. PsychiatryAdvisor.com offers a list of their top 10 mental health apps: http://www.psychiatryadvisor.com/top-10-mental-health-apps/slideshow/2608/.

Two popular apps that are free include Optimism and Pacifica.

 

FindingOptimism.com offers a group of self-tracking applications designed to help you increase your awareness of things that affect your mental health. The apps help you detect patterns in behavior and assist in developing strategies to act proactively. http://www.findingoptimism.com.

Pacifica is an app for stress, anxiety, and worry based on CBT – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, relaxation techniques, and wellness programs. The app is focused on five core activities, and is designed to be used as a daily tool to help people address stress and anxiety at their own pace. https://www.thinkpacifica.com/about.html

Some other apps to keep an eye on include the recently released Pala-linq  which will use technology to keep users connected to their support system. This app shows promise in terms of helping Oakland community members dealing with substance abuse, and can assist clinicians, family members and friends in staying connected and aware of those working through substance addiction. http://www.palalinq.com/

Another app expected to be launched in 2016 is Code Blue.  This app is aimed at  teenager, and helps connect teens with their support system when facing challenges brought on by depression, bullying, or simply support when they need it. Oakland teens will be able to choose several contacts to be part of their support group, and with just a few taps, the app will alert the support group that the user needs immediate help; members of the support group can then text or call the user. Register now for the soon to be released app: http://codeblue.io/