Anxiety and depression can feel debilitating and can make it hard to complete simple tasks such as getting out of bed, going to the grocery store, and meeting up for social gatherings. Many people with anxiety and/or depression want to begin taking steps to better their mental health but don’t know how to get there. First and foremost, seeking treatment is a fantastic way to improve symptoms of mental illness because you can work with a therapist one-on-one to develop tools and learn coping mechanisms. However, there are many online resources that one can use to get immediate help.
- 7 Cups Therapy. An online therapy tool, 7 cups can be accessed via website or mobile app. Individuals can join chat communities over specific topics such as anxiety or depression, and may also follow daily meditation and self-care tips to work their way through a visual reward system. Some aspects of the website are free, but to get further into the website users must pay a membership fee. You can access their resources by visiting: 7cups.com.
- Blah Therapy. Free if you chat with random people, this website allows you to “vent” or “listen” to another person from anywhere, going through anything. It is noted that nothing should be taken as professional therapeutic advice, but the website is great for just connecting with another person instantaneously through chat. To speak with a therapist through the site, there is a fee. You can access their website by going to blahtherapy.com.
- Looking At Something. If you’re feeling out of control, this website allows you to “control” the weather on the screen, ranging from a nice sunny day to a dark storm. This tool can help you distract yourself while you calm down. The website is: lookatsomething.com.
- Rainy Mood. Rainymood.com provides soothing, rainy sounds to help you relax and stay grounded. Utilize this website if you’re feeling upset or anxious and want to focus on beautiful sounds.
Anxiety and depression can be difficult to work with, but there are many resources out there to help. The Anxiety and Depression Association of America states that taking breaks, eating well-balanced meals, limiting alcohol and caffeine, getting plenty of sleep and exercise, taking deep breaths, counting to 10 slowly, accepting your best, accepting that you cannot control everything, welcoming humor and displaying a positive attitude can all help when you’re feeling anxious or depressed. If you are ever feeling suicidal, call the National Suicide Hotline immediately at 1-800-273-8255. Your life matters.
If you are ready to seek professional help for anxiety and/or depression, call us today at 888-958-7511. Avalon Malibu is California state-licensed and provides a home-like space for you to focus solely on your recovery. You will be able to work with a therapist one-on-one to develop coping skills and get to the deep-rooted issues behind your anxiety and depression. Call us today for a consultation.
