SALT LAKE CITY — Now may be a difficult time for many of you, whether it's the stress of losing a job, anxiety caused by COVID-19, or feeling worn out from having the kids at home more because they're not in school right now.
Whatever it is, the app myStrength could be what you need to improve your mood.
"There are tools to deal with issues such as depression, parenting, substance use disorders, and general stress and anxiety management," said Eric Tadehara, the Assistant Director of the Utah Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health.
The Division said they made it possible to get the mental health and wellness app for everyone for free because they saw a need for it during the pandemic.
"The purpose of the app is to ensure that there are tools and resources for individuals who are trying to manage and help their own self with their own mental well-being," said Tadehara.
All you have to do is go to the Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health website and sign up for the app, then you can access it on your computer or smartphone.
The app starts by asking you a few questions.
"It’ll ask you things about how you’re doing, issues that you may be having related to stress or anxiety, things that may be related to parenting, or any of those kinds of stresses as well," Tadehara said.
Once you tell the app about yourself, how you're feeling, and any problems you have, you can choose from a list of mood-boosting activities and exercises.
You can also set goals and habits for yourself.
There are also tools and techniques for any of you who may be having trouble sleeping right now.
"If you’re having any kind of struggle while you’re using the app, there’s a get help function within it and that function has a couple of quick links to some services that are available in Utah directly," said Tadehara.
The Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health said they don't see any of your personal information.
They say the only information about the app they can access is how many people have downloaded it and where it's being downloaded across the state, so they can show if it's a worthwhile investment.
If you'd like to sign up for the myStrength app, click here.
