Free apps for anxiety | We all have days when the world feels overwhelming, when our hearts beat a little faster, and our breaths seem to catch in our throats. Anxiety is a common thread in the fabric of modern life, but luckily, technology offers a wealth of resources right at our fingertips, designed to soothe, comfort, and guide us back to a calmer state of being. Below, we list 13 free apps that promise to be a balm for your busy mind.
1. Insight Timer – A Community of Calm
Insight Timer offers a vast library of over 45,000 free guided meditations and a community of 8 million meditators. It’s essentially a global meditation village.
Pros:
- Entirely free with no locked features.
Cons:
- It may be overwhelming to choose from so many options.
Pricing: Free.
2. Sanvello – Daily Stress Relief
Sanvello provides cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques to help alleviate anxiety on a daily basis.
Pros:
- Evidence-based techniques.
- Offers symptom tracking and mood logging.
Cons:
- Advanced features require a subscription.
Pricing: Free, with premium subscriptions starting at $8.99/month.
3. MindShift CBT – A Tactical Approach
MindShift CBT uses clinically validated strategies to tackle anxiety by changing how you think and feel.
Pros:
- It focuses on CBT methods.
- It includes specific tools for dealing with intense anxiety.
Cons:
- Content may feel slightly clinical compared to other apps.
Pricing: Free.
4. Breathe2Relax – the Power of Breath
Breathe2Relax centers around the stress-managing technique of diaphragmatic breathing, a practice you can carry anywhere.
Pros:
- Simple interface designed for stress management.
- It helps in improving mood stability.
Cons:
- Less comprehensive than other apps in terms of features.
Pricing: Free.
Free Apps for Anxiety
5. Smiling Mind – Mindfulness for All Ages
Smiling Mind is a unique app designed by psychologists and educators, suitable for users as young as seven years old.
Pros:
- Age-specific programs.
- Entirely free with no in-app purchases.
Cons:
- Content may not be as in-depth for adults.
Pricing: Free.
6. Stop, Breathe & Think – Personalized Progress
Stop, Breathe & Think invites you to check in with your emotions and recommends activities tailored to how you feel.
Pros:
- Activities recommended based on user’s current mood.
- Contains a diverse range of meditation topics.
Cons:
- The app has in-app purchases for more content.
Pricing: Free, with in-app purchases.
7. Dare – Break Free from Anxiety
Dare offers a bold approach by using ‘dare’ responses to address panic attacks and anxiety head-on.
Pros:
- Innovative approach to break the anxiety loop.
- Audio guides for real-life situations.
Cons:
- Some features are locked behind a paywall.
Pricing: Free, premium available at $9.99/month.
8. Pacifica – Daily Tools for Stress & Anxiety
Pacifica is rebranded as Sanvello but still provides daily tools for dealing with stress and anxiety, tracking your mood, and setting personal goals.
Pros:
- Comprehensive tools for managing stress.
Cons:
- Premium content requires a subscription.
Pricing: See Sanvello for pricing.
Free Apps for Anxiety
9. Happify – Science-Based Activities and Games
Happify turns the management of anxiety into an engaging endeavor with science-based activities and games designed to build resilience and control over your feelings.
Pros:
- Engaging approach with activities and games.
- Techniques based on positive psychology.
Cons:
- Full access requires a subscription.
Pricing: Free, with premium plans starting at $14.99/month.
10. PTSD Coach – For App For Anxiety For Trauma Recovery
Developed by the Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD Coach specifically caters to those recovering from trauma, but its tools can be applied to general anxiety as well.
Pros:
- Designed for those dealing with PTSD.
- Reliable and research-based.
Cons:
- Some may find it very focused on trauma-related anxiety.
Pricing: Free.
Free Apps for Anxiety
11. Anxiety Relief Hypnosis – Free App for Anxiety to Soothe Your Mind
Anxiety Relief Hypnosis introduces users to relaxation through self-hypnosis audio sessions.
Pros:
- Unique approach through hypnosis.
- Audio sessions can be very calming.
Cons:
- Effectiveness varies from person to person.
Pricing: Free.
12. Rootd – Manage Panic Anywhere
Rootd focuses on providing immediate support during panic attacks with a user-friendly interface and a ‘Rootd to help’ feature.
Pros:
- Panic button for immediate assistance.
- Helpful for on-the-spot support.
Cons:
- Some additional content requires payment.
Pricing: Free, with in-app purchases starting at $4.99.
13. MyLife Meditation – Guided Meditations & Mindfulness
Formerly known as Stop, Breathe & Think, MyLife Meditation offers a personalized mindfulness solution built around your feelings, aiding in achieving emotional wellness.
Pros:
- Offers meditation and mindfulness activities customized to your emotions.
- Wide range of mindfulness and yoga videos.
Cons:
- Premium features require a subscription.
Pricing: Free, with premium subscriptions available starting at $9.99/month.
Each of these resources provides its own unique blend of support, catering to various styles and preferences. Whether you’re taking your first step in managing anxiety or looking to deepen your toolkit, these free apps are companions for your journey to a calmer mind. Explore, experience, and find solace in the power of digital aids—your wellness journey starts now.
Please note that while these apps are helpful, they’re not a replacement for professional treatment if your anxiety is significantly interfering with your daily life. It’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider for a personalized approach to managing anxiety.
