Words by Emily Huelin
According to mental health charity Mind, 1 in 4 people in the UK will experience a mental health problem each year.
We’ve heard it time and time again – social media is making us more anxious. What if there were was a way to use our technical skills to make us feel less worried and boost our confidence? A recent study from The University of Manchester found that smartphones can reduce anxiety. Here’s the good news, there are a ton of apps out there that can help you deal with anxiety and I have put five to the test…
1. HEADSPACE
This British meditation app is perfect for people just starting out and want to learn more. It’s straight-forward and clear approach will appeal if you fear that meditating is a bit intense and hippy-like. The free trail includes 10 different spoken-word exercises that last 10 minutes a day. Headspace is the simple way to relive stress and anxiety – ideal for those dreaded final weeks at University.
2. CALM
Similar to Headspace, Calm uses a simplistic and bold approach which is perfect for beginners who have just started their meditation routine. Each selection ranges from 3-minute to 25-minute sessions. It also includes ‘Daily Calm’, a 10-minute programme you can practice at the start and end of a busy day. The app allows you to choose different types of meditations depending on your symptoms – from anxiety to sleep Calm has got you covered.
3. SMILING MIND
Smiling Mind is a unique app primarily aimed at children and young people – however, adults are welcome too. The modern app is designed by educators and psychologists to ensure each section is as effective as possible. Each programme is designed to assist people in dealing with the pressure and challenges of daily life.
4. BREATHE
From relaxing music to weight loss meditation, this app has you covered. Breathe offers a range of easy-to-use meditation and mindfulness features. The bold and clear app brings you relaxation for mornings, sleep and other tailored topics. If you’re just a beginner and want to learn more about meditation this is the perfect app for you.
5. MINDFULLNESS
The Mindfulness App is one of the most accessible out of the five, offering an in-depth meditation catalogue packed with a range of tracks ranging from 3 to 30 minutes long. As with Headspace and Calm there is a useful introductory feature to get you on your feet and ease you into the upcoming meditation courses.
