5 Free Apps to Help Veterans Cope with Mental Health Issues

Returning to civilian life can be challenging for many veterans. From finding a job to reconnecting with family and friends, this process can be overwhelming. And veterans may be at greater risk for mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Fortunately, there are tools available to help you deal with these challenges. Discover some valuable apps that can help you manage your mental health and well-being. Whether you’re struggling with stress, sleep problems, or just need someone to talk to, these apps will give you the support you need.

The PTSD Coach app is a mobile app designed to help veterans and service members manage PTSD symptoms. It was developed by the National PTSD Center of the US Department of Veterans Affairs and the National Telehealth and Technology Center of the Department of Defense.

The app offers users a variety of tools and resources to help manage PTSD symptoms, including anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. It offers an interactive self-assessment tool that helps users track their symptoms over time and offers strategies to manage symptoms when they occur.

The app also includes audio-guided relaxation exercises and a virtual coach that can help users develop coping skills and set personal goals. It also provides access to resources such as crisis hotlines, support groups and other helpful websites.

It is an excellent tool for veterans who may be struggling with PTSD symptoms and are looking for a discreet and accessible way to manage their mental health. This app can help you take control of your PTSD symptoms and improve your overall well-being.

If you’re struggling with PTSD and have trouble sleeping, you might want to learn more about the NightWare app, which comes pre-installed on a prescription Apple Watch that uses its sensors to help you combat sleep problems.

Download: PTSD Coach for iOS | Android (Free)

There are many mental health apps for suicide and self-harm prevention. The Operation Reach Out app is designed to help military and veterans struggling with suicidal thoughts. Created by the Military Suicide Research Consortium and the National Center for Telehealth and Technology.

The Operation Reach Out app has a very simple design and light content. It divides its content into two parts: one for individuals struggling with suicidal thoughts, and one for those who know someone who may need help.

Using the app, individuals can watch empowering videos of other veterans sharing words of encouragement when they otherwise feel helpless. The app also includes a resource section with links to additional support services and activity suggestions that may be helpful for those experiencing suicidal thoughts.

Download: Operation Reach Out for iOS | Android (Free)

Anger and Irritability Management Skills (AIMs) is a mobile app designed to help veterans and service members manage feelings of anger and irritability. The app offers a variety of tools and resources to help users identify the root cause of their anger and develop strategies to manage their emotions. It offers a self-assessment tool to track anger symptoms over time, as well as interactive exercises to teach relaxation techniques and problem-solving skills.

Users can also create a personalized anger management plan, setting goals and strategies for managing their anger in specific situations. The app provides a logging feature to track progress and identify areas for improvement. Using the app, users can learn skills to improve communication, strengthen relationships and reduce stress levels. It can be a valuable resource for veterans who want to improve their mental health and well-being.

If an app doesn’t do it, you might also want to try some anger-busting workouts that can help you blow off some steam.

Download: AIM for Anger Management for iOS | Android (Free)

The caring4womenveterans app is designed to help women veterans access healthcare services and resources. Created by the US Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Women’s Health Services.

The app provides a variety of tools and resources specifically tailored to the unique needs of female veterans, including information on women’s health issues, mental health support, and resources for survivors of military sexual trauma (MST). It also offers a provider directory that helps users find VA facilities and providers in their area.

A valuable resource for any woman who has served in the military and is looking for support and guidance on her health journey.

Download: Caring4WomenVeterans for iOS | Android (Free)

There are many options for improving your mental health. However, the Mindfulness Coach app was developed by the US Department of Veterans Affairs to help veterans and service members learn and practice mindfulness techniques.

The app offers a variety of guided mindfulness exercises that can be tailored to individual needs and preferences. It offers a range of exercises, including body scans, breathing exercises and guided meditations, which can help reduce stress, manage anxiety and improve overall well-being.

You can set reminders to practice mindfulness throughout the day, track your progress over time, and customize the exercises to suit your needs. One of the app’s unique features is the ability to tailor mindfulness exercises to specific needs, such as treating symptoms of PTSD, depression, or anxiety. The app provides resources and guidance to help you develop a mindfulness practice that can be incorporated into your daily routine.

Using the app, you can learn techniques to deal with difficult emotions, improve your overall mood and well-being, and build resilience in the face of potential challenges. A valuable resource for anyone who wants to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine and improve their mental health.

Download: Mindfulness Coach for iOS | Android (Free)

Technology for better mental health

For veterans and service members dealing with mental health issues, there are many applications available to help manage symptoms and improve overall well-being. From the PTSD Coach app to the Mindfulness Coach app, each offers unique benefits and resources to help users meet their specific needs.

While these apps are not a substitute for professional treatment, they can complement existing therapies and help veterans and service members move toward a brighter, more fulfilling future.