NZ Government releases apps to help with mental health during COVID-19 crisis
The New Zealand government has launched three apps to help improve the mental wellbeing of Kiwis during the COVID-19 crisis.
The New Zealand government has made three mental health apps available in the wake of the global COVID-19 pandemic.
The initiatives include: the app Mentemia; a health journey app called Melon and an e-therapy programmed called Staying on Track.
“This is an incredibly tough time for many Kiwis, and we want people to know that they are not alone, and that there is support out there. The tools released today sit alongside the range of Government support on offer,” Health Minister David Clark said.
“We know that sudden change, such as the loss of a job or income, can place real stress on people. Added to that, the pressure of being at home and the isolation that may come with that, means these apps have never been needed more.
“These three online tools give people practical ways to support their mental wellbeing and I would encourage anyone to take a look at them,” Clark said.
Experts believe that unemployment rates could reach the double digits in the coming months, placing a great deal of stress on the mental health of those impacted.
The Apps
The three apps include Mentemia – an app that was created by All Blacks legend and mental health advocate Sir John Kirwan, tech entrepreneur Adam Clark and an expert team of mental health advisors. Mentemia provides users with practical tips and techniques to help them take control of their mental wellbeing.
The second app, Melon, provides users with a health journal, resources and self-awareness tools to help people manage their mental wellbeing. Through Melon, users are able to connect with a wider online community within New Zealand enabling them to support each other. Webinars will also be available for health and wellbeing. Clark has said that in the coming weeks there will additional resources launched through Melon that cater specifically to the 13 to 24-year-old age group.
Staying on Track is an e-therapy tool designed to help people who are experiencing worry and distress. “Its cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) teaches practical strategies to cope with the stress and disruption to everyday life from COVID-19,” explains Clark.
“People will be responding to COVID-19 in different ways and the way we seek help and deal with our mental wellbeing is different for everyone. Many support systems and services are still available through the lockdown, although they may need to be delivered via phone or video conference,” said Clark.
The three apps join two mental health support programmes – Getting Through Together and Sparklers at Home – which the government launched last week to help support parents with children at home.
Find out more about the new mental health resources below:
justathought.co.nz/covid19 for Staying on Track
This Post Has 0 Comments