5 Apps to help manage anxiety and stress

Taking care of your mental well-being has never been more important, and thankfully, there are plenty of resources available to support you. Apps can be a convenient and accessible way to prioritise your mental health, offering tools that fit into your daily life. Whether you’re looking for help with mindfulness, anxiety, or simply want to manage stress better, there are options to suit everyone. Many of these apps offer free trials or basic versions, so you can try them out and see what resonates with you – no commitment required. Remember, your mental health matters, and these resources can make a real difference without breaking the budget.

Here’s a look at five apps that can support you on your well-being journey.

1. Calm

Calm has become a favorite for many users, offering guided meditations, breathing exercises, and soothing sleep stories. The free version provides a great starting point for exploring tools to ease anxiety, whether you’re focusing on mindfulness or just need a moment to pause. The app also features relaxing soundscapes, such as gentle rain or ocean waves, that can create a comforting atmosphere when life feels overwhelming. The premium subscription is $79.99 AUD per year.

2. Headspace

Headspace is known for making meditation approachable. Their free version has a selection of guided meditations designed to help with stress, sleep, and focus. The app also includes everyday mindfulness tips to encourage small changes that can make a big difference. Simple and easy to use, Headspace is a great introduction to meditation and relaxation techniques. The annual plan is available for $91.99 AUD.

3. Sleep Ninja by the Black Dog Institute

Sleep Ninja is a free, evidence-based app designed to help young people improve their sleep. Developed by the Black Dog Institute, this interactive app teaches skills for better sleep habits through an engaging, game-like format. Improving sleep can have a significant impact on overall mental health, and this app is tailored to fit into the lives of young Australians.

4. Breathwrk

Sometimes, all it takes is a few mindful breaths. Breathwrk focuses on breathing exercises to help reduce stress, increase energy, or even improve sleep. The app provides step-by-step guidance with visual animations, making it clear and easy to follow. Whether you need quick relief during a stressful moment or are building a daily relaxation routine, Breathwrk is there to help you breathe through it. The pro plan is $5.75 USD/month paid annually.

5. Moodfit

Moodfit calls itself a “gym membership for your mental health.” The app includes thought records, gratitude journaling, and tools to track moods and identify patterns. It’s customisable, allowing you to set specific goals, like reducing stress or building self-confidence. With practical features that help you reflect and grow, Moodfit empowers you to take charge of your mental well-being. The App Store price for Moodsit is $39.99/US per year.

Take the first step

Managing anxiety and stress doesn’t always have to involve major life changes. Sometimes, it’s these small steps – like downloading an app or spending just a few minutes focusing on yourself – that can create a difference. Each app here offers something unique, catering to different needs and preferences.

If you’re also thinking about taking steps toward meaningful employment, our team at CoAct is here to support you every step of the way. Reach out to us to discover how we can work together to find a job that fits your goals and circumstances.

(Disability Employment Services Australia (DES) has now been replaced by Inclusive Employment Australia (IEA).