It’s been some time (2017!) since we last reviewed apps. This time around, we’re specifically interested in SaaS (software as a service) subscription-based apps that connect to the Cloud, offering individuals and employers an array of powerful and accessible wellbeing and resilience solutions. SaaS platforms make mental health care accessible anytime, anywhere, and can be tailored to support diverse needs.
Like last time, we’ve arranged the list according to Upstream, Midstream, and Downstream applications:
Upstream apps focus on prevention, helping users build resilience and maintain mental well-being before problems arise.
Midstream apps provide early detection and peer support, offering intervention when issues begin to emerge.
Downstream apps cater to those needing more intensive support, such as therapy or crisis management.
So much has changed in the past seven years, and many apps no longer exist or have become far more robust than previously, have more research behind them, and give access to a range of therapists and other mental health supports. If you have a favorite app that we didn’t include in this list, let me know in the comments section or email me!
Upstream: Resilience Self-Help Apps
Calm
Calm is a leading meditation and sleep app, offering guided meditations, sleep stories, and mindfulness programs. Explore Calm
Headspace
Headspace offers guided meditation sessions, courses on mental well-being, and sleep-focused content. Visit Headspace
Happify
Happify offers scientifically backed activities and games to improve mood and build resilience. Discover Happify
Sanvello
Sanvello delivers CBT-based tools for managing stress and anxiety. It offers premium content and therapy sessions through its subscription service. Visit Sanvello
Shine
Shine provides daily self-care practices, including meditation and motivational messages. Users can access premium content and community features through a subscription. Check out Shine
Midstream: Early Detection and Peer Support/Life Coach Apps
Youper
Youper is an AI-powered mental health assistant that offers emotional support and mood tracking. Its subscription model allows users to access personalized care plans and mental health resources. Explore Youper
Talkspace
Talkspace connects subscribers with licensed therapists via its platform, providing flexible access to therapy through text, video, and voice messaging.
Visit Talkspace
Wysa
Wysa offers AI-driven mental health support, combining chat-based therapy with CBT techniques. It also provides access to human therapists through its subscription service.
Discover Wysa
7 Cups
7 Cups offers on-demand emotional health services. Users can connect with volunteer listeners or licensed therapists for support. Check out 7 Cups
Spring Health
Spring Health is a comprehensive mental health platform that provides personalized care plans, therapy, and coaching through a flexible subscription model designed for individuals and/or employers. Visit Spring Health
Downstream: Online Mental Health Services and Suicide Prevention Apps
BetterHelp
BetterHelp is a leading SaaS platform for online therapy, providing access to licensed counselors and therapists. Learn more about BetterHelp
Brightside
Brightside delivers personalized mental health care through a subscription-based platform, focusing on therapy and medication management for anxiety and depression.
Visit Brightside
Crisis Text Line
Crisis Text Line provides free, 24/7 mental health support via text messaging. Users can text a trained crisis counselor to receive immediate help, making it an essential tool for those in urgent need. Discover Crisis Text Line
Calm Harm
Calm Harm provides tasks to help users resist or manage the urge to self-harm. The app is based on the principles of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). Check out Calm Harm
Amwell
Amwell is a telehealth platform that provides access to a variety of mental health professionals, including therapists and psychiatrists. Through a subscription service, users can receive therapy and medication management, making it a comprehensive option for those needing downstream mental health support. Explore Amwell