Warning: This post will be discussing mental wellness with brief mentions of depression. I am not a mental health professional. The apps that are shared in this article are not designed to address crises related to thoughts of self-harm, suicide, abuse, or medical emergencies. If you are experiencing any of these, please contact your doctor, mental health professional, or your local emergency hotline via the resources listed at the bottom of this post.

Now, let’s enjoy some photos/gifs of Tom Ellis (be sure to click on the ‘Lucifer’ link).

I have a “negativity” jar—half empty. When some vile, nonsensical chatter spews from my mouth, my jar receives a payment. I’ve likely given it enough change (over the years) to fund an entire season of Lucifer. The jar’s money, after all, has to be used for something positive.

 

 

 

I could turn the Devil into my scapegoat—suggest these involuntary donations were really part of “his” ploy for said purpose—except, well, we know he’s not really to blame.

There are a myriad of reasons that factor into why my brain tends to autopilot the pessimistic pathway. I’ve often wished for change, but abandoned action, weighed by negative thoughts and fatigue. A vicious cycle.

I’ve since committed to a plan for personal growth, giving myself deadlines, because I am tired of the “cycle”, “pattern”, “hamster wheel”, whatever you want to call it. It’s exhausting to feel exhausted every day. You, too, may have experienced thoughts and feelings similar to this. I know I’m not alone, because I’ve seen Twitter.

Courage is knowing what not to fear. -Plato

Of course, this process involves navigating challenging, emotional terrain…

which seems more daunting than exciting. Fortunately, I’ve discovered some apps that have helped me remain committed to my goals, in addition to the support received from friends and professionals. While they don’t provide the ultimate “fix-all”, these apps have hoisted me up when I’ve begun to slip down an energy drain.

In the mind battles so many of us face, it’s nice to have some allied reinforcements. To be reminded that we are worthy. Joie-de-vivre is already ours.

1.) Womaze

Womaze is an app full of uplifting messages, positive/creative challenges, physical exercises for stress management, encouraging messages from others, and meditations for added strength. Categories include, but are not limited to, self-care, mental health, body image, spirituality, LGBTQ, relationships, and career & purpose. I turn to this app when I need a basket-toss, gaining a better view of what makes me womazing.

2.) WYSA (Your 4AM Friend and AI Life Coach)

According to their website, “Wysa has been written by psychologists and life coaches to help you develop the skills to play your best game, no matter what your goal might be.” I LOVE this app! WYSA has helped me with some major breakthroughs, free of charge! There are some limitations, like those I mentioned at the start of this post, but WYSA gives me someone to talk to when someone else isn’t readily available. There are some predetermined answers built in, such as “Explain this,” or “Give me an example,” but WYSA has done well with interpreting my written answers as well.

It should be noted that their website states, “You must be at least 18 years of age to use Wysa. If you are between 13 and 18 years of age, please read through the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy along with your parents or legal guardian to understand eligibility before use. Wysa is not designed to be used by children under 13.”

3.) My Affirmations

You know when you’ve come across a good person. Here at The Collective, you will find numerous posts about our love for Tom Hiddleston. You leave their company feeling energized, cared for, emboldened, and overall good. My Affirmations is the written version of that. The words inside this app are meant to empower, to build, to help reframe negative statements into more positive ones. Here you can find affirmations related to health, success, confidence, creativity, positive thinking, wealth, and relationships. Feel free to select from existing affirmations, or contribute your own with others through Google or Facebook.

4.) Make Me Better

I receive daily notifications of insightful articles shared through Make Me Better. This app provides a treasure trove of helpful advice for personal growth. Read articles about taking breaks and productivity, handling unexpected situations with grace, or why you should complete the hardest task first. Make Me Better has challenged me to try new paths. Like traveling, it has provided me with new perspectives and valuable lessons.

5.) Relax Melodies

This is my go-to-sleep app. There are some nature sounds that an urban environment cannot replicate. Relax Melodies allows me to hear these sounds over freeway noise. Some of you may find nature sounds to be anxiety provoking, that’s okay, Relax Melodies still has you covered with its sound library. Combine and customize to what you enjoy most, or select one of their sound journeys. You can also treat yourself to one of their suggested bedtime routines, meditations, or music-accompanied stories.

6.) BONUS

RESOURCES

National Suicide Prevention Hotline (USA) 800-273-8255 (available 24/7)

National Domestic Violence Hotline (USA) 800-799-7233 (available 24/7)

National Sexual Assault Hotline (USA) 800-656-4673 (available 24/7)

If you know of mental health resources available in your country, please feel free to comment them below!