The DSM-V classifies anxiety as excessive worry and restlessness that interfere with one’s overall daily functioning. (1) While it is normal to feel nervous before a big exam or important work presentation, clinical anxiety presents more days than not and is often experienced as feeling extremely tense or “keyed up.” The individual experiencing anxiety often finds it difficult to control. It may affect their sleep, appetite, concentration, and performance in school, work, and the quality of their relationships. According to the DSM-V, anxiety can manifest in various forms, including Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and others. (1)
“Anxiety impacts most of my therapy clients and can interfere with their quality of life in various settings. Thankfully, there are ways to cope with anxiety as well as to decrease its impact on your life.”
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC, Fortune Recommends Mental Health Advisor
A number of emerging apps are rooted in evidence-based research and comprise a range of coping modalities, psychoeducation, and increased insights relative to anxiety, which can provide support for many.
Editor’s choice anxiety app
Those in the market for a therapy-based app for anxiety should consider our top pick, BetterHelp. It offers multiple communication methods, many therapists to choose from, and ongoing support between sessions.
Our picks for the best apps for anxiety
- Best for therapy: BetterHelp
- Best for adults: Headspace
- Most comprehensive: Mindshift CBT
- Best for breathing: Breathwrk
- Best free: Medito: Meditation & Wellness
- Best for beginners: Rootd
- Best for insomnia: Calm
- Best for journaling: DailyBean – simplest journal
- Best for kids: Smiling Mind: Meditation App
- Best for meditation: BetterMe: Mental Health
Compare apps for anxiety
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| BetterHelp | Headspace | Mindshift CBT | Breathwrk | Medito: Meditation & Wellness | Rootd | Calm | DailyBean – simplest journal | Smiling Mind: Meditation App | BetterMe:Mental Health | |
| Rating | ||||||||||
| Best for | Therapy | Adults | Comprehensive | Breathing | Budget | Beginners | Insomnia | Journaling | Kids | Meditation |
| Price | $70-100 weekly | $12.99 monthly, $69.99 yearly | Free | $9 monthly, $49 yearly | Free | Free for basic content, $9.99 monthly, Premium $79.99 yearly | $14.99 monthly, $69.99 yearly | $3.99 monthly, $19.99 yearly | Free | $14.99 monthly, $69.99 yearly |
| Free trial | No | 2 weeks | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 1 week | 1 week | N/A | 1 week |
| Platforms | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS | iOS | Android, iOS | Android, iOS |
Best anxiety app for therapy: BetterHelp
Key product features
What you should know
While BetterHelp offers therapy services, it is not for those needing urgent clinical support
- BetterHelp subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week or between $280 and $400 per month
- Best for those seeking therapy for additional insight and coping methods, not those seeking immediate intervention
Why we like BetterHelp as best for therapy
BetterHelp is a convenient and accessible platform offering therapy services for individuals struggling with anxiety and various mental health challenges. The app’s user-friendly interface makes it easy to connect with licensed therapists from the comfort of one’s home, reducing barriers such as transportation, time constraints, or scheduling conflicts that may affect in-person traditional therapy. BetterHelp has a diverse array of therapists with varying specialties, so users can find one that is best suited for their specific needs and treatment goals.
As a therapist, I like how this app encourages users to be in touch with their thoughts and emotions in between sessions. This helps us better understand our anxiety and gain insight into what could be underlying it. Research shows that this is effective in supporting anxiety. (2) Plus, ongoing support can also provide helpful coping strategies. This helps in promoting progress and recovery. A notable feature includes the journaling activity with numerous prompts to support users’ progress and insights.
Another notable feature of BetterHelp is its asynchronous communication model, which allows users to message their therapist anytime and receive ongoing support between scheduled sessions. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with anxiety, as they can express their thoughts and feelings in real-time and receive timely feedback and guidance. Additionally, the platform offers various communication options, including messaging, live chat, phone calls, and video sessions, catering to different comfort levels and preferences. That said, those seeking immediate support may find this a limitation.
While BetterHelp offers convenience and flexibility, it’s important to note that it may not be suitable for those with significant mental health concerns or needing crisis interventions. While video therapy, phone calls, and chats are helpful interventions, they do not replace in-person relationships. Despite these limitations, BetterHelp remains a valuable resource for individuals seeking affordable and accessible therapy for anxiety and other mental health challenges.
“As a therapist, I appreciate how this platform encourages users to gain insight into their anxiety in between sessions while also offering clinicians of various specialties to best address one’s needs and treatment goals.”
Lauren Teeter, MS, MSW, CNS, LCSW
What customers are saying
With over 135,000 ratings averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars on the Apple App Store, users love all the features on BetterHelp.
One Apple App Store user with the username “CNGJCG” says, “This has been a huge help with not only connecting with a highly trained therapist but also perfect for someone who doesn’t have the time to make appointments during regular office hours or hunt for the ‘right’ therapist.” They especially love how easy the app is to navigate and state, “You simply download the app, fill out a quick personal questionnaire and a bio if you so choose, and they match you with a therapist. And if you feel the match isn’t right at any time, you can make changes when you so choose.”
“If you’ve ever felt you needed therapy but couldn’t get to it either because of time restraints, convenience issues, monetary concerns, or even just lack of access, then you owe to yourself to check out BetterHelp.”
—“Primswhimsy,” Apple App Store Reviewer
“This app solves all those problems. It’s affordable, secure, private, convenient, and accessible. The quality of the therapy I’m getting is first-rate—trust me, I’ve been to enough different types of therapists and therapies with my illness, I can tell quality and competence when I see it. This service has both.”
Some users complain about their experience with the therapist. It’s important to note that finding the right therapist for you is a trial and error process. It may take a few tries to find the perfect fit.
“Canceled after one week,” complains Apple App Store user Austin Davenport. “The therapist just sent me articles via messaging and barely offered any solutions.”
Specs
| Price | Subscriptions range from $70 to $100 per week between $280 and $400 per month |
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| Notable content | Therapy for various mental health concerns |
| Free trial | No |
Best anxiety app for adults: Headspace
Key product features
What you should know
Headspace distinguishes itself among meditation apps by providing an extensive, clinical evidenced-based array of engaging mindfulness content that supports various aspects of health.
- Headspace offers mindfulness meditations for sleep and improving mental health. It also has a host of articles and resources for users.
- The app is best for those looking to get the most out of their meditation practices.
Why we like Headspace as best for adults
Headspace is a great app for evidence-based support for anxiety. It offers a range of mindfulness, meditation, and other exercises that have implications for both the body and mind, which I truly appreciate as a therapist. Headspace has high-quality, intentional, and structured content to support anxiety taught by several clinical experts.
Mindfulness is the practice of paying attention to the present moment without judgment and can be practiced in different ways to help alleviate anxiety symptoms. Ms. Johnson adds, “By incorporating a mindfulness routine like Headspace, you can start to chip away at some of your anxiety by changing your reactions to stressors.”
From comprehensive guided meditation sessions and breathing exercises to yoga, Headspace offers a diverse array of programs to address anxiety. It also includes exercises rooted in mindfulness-based stress reduction (MSBR), tailored to improve sleep anxiety management and provide psychoeducation. Headspace additionally has music for improved productivity and concentration, which is popular among adults. These are all strategies to improve anxiety based on clinical data and research. (3) Check out our list of the best meditation apps to find more apps to build your new practice.
In particular, I believe its focus on mindfulness is valuable in terms of anxiety from a body and mind, holistic perspective. Taking a non-judgmental, curious, and neutral approach to our anxiety supports us in better understanding, adapting, and conquering it. In fact, MSBR has been demonstrated to induce changes in the brain, like reducing overactivity in the amygdala, a brain region associated with emotions. This improves emotional regulation as evidenced by a 2016 study, as well as mounting research in the field. (4)
We love that the app offers a friendly user interface and individual recommendations, making it accessible and effective for those seeking clinically validated strategies to enhance their well-being.
What customers are saying
On the Apple App Store, Headspace has received nearly one million ratings, averaging 4.8 out of 5 stars.
One Apple App Store User under the username “Kaysoph” loves the vast library. “This app did an amazing job of helping me be more mindful throughout the day,” they begin. “In the ‘Headspace library’, there were tabs for certain scenarios like navigating injustice, reframe stress and relaxation, mindful money, anger/sadness/growth, mindful eating, and guides for sleep. Each tab had different podcasts and meditation methods that corresponded to that subject. I enjoyed using this app because, as a person who worries often, this tool allowed me to take time out of my day to clear my head and do something that betters my mental health.”
“The best mindfulness app. It’s user friendly and the meditation teachers come from all walks of life. You can tell they truly love what they so. They’re so passionate about helping others. They even have things for family and children. I’ve grown into a better person and I’ve learned so much over these two years about myself.”
—“Debbieamy112495,” Apple App Store Reviewer
Some users have noted that they dislike the lack of free content.
“You literally can’t do anything without paying for the subscription. I bet it’d be amazing,” complains Apple App Store user with the username “Akhonacrys.”
We want to note that there is an option for a two-week free trial to try the app before making any purchases. You can also cancel the subscription before the trial ends without a charge on your account.
Specs
| Price | $12.99 monthly, $69.99 yearly |
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| Notable content | Adult mindfulness exercises for managing anxiety |
| Free trial | Two-week free trial |
Most comprehensive anxiety app: Mindshift CBT
Key product features
What you should know
Mindshift CBT provides users with evidence-based tools for anxiety support.
- Supports progress by tracking anxiety
- Provides evidence-based strategies rooted in CBT
- Offers mindfulness and insight into anxiety symptoms
Why we like Mindshift CBT as most comprehensive
Mindshift CBT is a comprehensive mobile application designed to address anxiety from a CBT perspective. Its evidence-based approach offers users a wide array of tools and techniques to effectively manage anxiety in various situations. From cognitive restructuring exercises to mindfulness practices, Mindshift CBT equips users with practical skills to challenge negative thought patterns and cope with anxiety triggers.
CBT has been a well-recognized therapeutic modality in understanding how our thoughts, emotions, and behavior are connected, supporting increased awareness of our anxiety. This has been well established in the literature. A notable 2019 systematic review and meta-analysis demonstrated significant treatment effects of CBT for the treatment of anxiety. (5) Ms. Johnson adds, “CBT is an effective and user-friendly therapy modality with plenty of opportunities to practice in real-time, particularly for anxiety.”
One of the app’s standout features is its emphasis on education, providing users with a thorough understanding of anxiety and how CBT can help. Through informative articles and interactive activities, Mindshift CBT empowers users to take an active role in their anxiety management journey, fostering a sense of agency and control.
We love that the app offers customizable goal-setting and progress-tracking functionalities, allowing users to monitor their growth and celebrate their successes along the way.
While Mindshift CBT excels in its breadth of content and user-friendly interface, some individuals may find certain aspects overwhelming, especially during periods of heightened anxiety. We noted that the app’s extensive library of tools and techniques may feel daunting to navigate for those seeking quick relief. Moreover, while Mindshift CBT can be a valuable self-help tool, it may not be a substitute for professional therapy, particularly for individuals with severe or persistent anxiety disorders who may require more intensive treatment.
Overall, Mindshift CBT stands out as a valuable resource for individuals looking to take a proactive approach to managing anxiety. Its comprehensive approach, coupled with its emphasis on education and empowerment, makes it a valuable companion for anyone navigating the challenges of living with anxiety. By combining evidence-based strategies with user-friendly features, Mindshift CBT offers a holistic solution for tackling anxiety and reclaiming control over one’s mental wellbeing.
What customers are saying
Mindshift CBT has over 300 ratings in the Apple App Store, averaging 4.2 stars out of 5.
One Apple App Store user going by the username “Anxious Alyssa” finds the app extremely educational and user-friendly. “As a young adult, I’ve always had some small level of anxiety that I’ve dealt with. The pandemic and job stress have just amplified all of that. I don’t think my anxiety is so severe that I need to get a therapist (mostly because of the cost), so I wanted to find ways to manage my anxiety. I can feel my anxiety diminish as I’m using it.”
“I honestly didn’t expect this app to be so important in my day-to-day life. I love it. It’s been so helpful. It helps me identify and balance thought traps. It provides a space for setting goals and offers quick suggestions for calming and grounding myself.”
—“TJHooker33,” Apple App Store Reviewer
One Apple App Store user going by the username “223374647” complains about the limited daily check-ins allowed stating, “I got this app to help track how long my anxiety attacks last but it only allows three check-ins like if we had a consistent mood all day.”
Specs
| Price | Free |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Notable content | CBT resources |
| Free trial | N/A |
Best anxiety app for breathing: Breathwrk
Key product features
What you should know
Breathwrk supports calming effects on the body and mind through the power of breath.
- Offers a range of breathing exercises
- Provides psychoeducation relative to the power of the breath in soothing anxiety from a body and mind perspective
- Offers a customizable and holistic approach to anxiety
- With features for progress tracking, Breathwrk empowers users to monitor their breathing patterns and improvements over time, offering valuable insights into their anxiety triggers and coping strategies
Why we like Breathwrk as best for breathing
The Breathwrk app presents itself as a solution for managing anxiety through guided breathing exercises. Its interface is user-friendly, offering various breathing techniques tailored to alleviate symptoms of anxiety. We were greeted with a serene design and clear instructions, fostering a calming environment conducive to relaxation. We noted options like simple deep-breathing exercises to more advanced techniques like box breathing.
Breathwork and breathing exercises can cause immediate relief of anxiety symptoms for many people. A benefit to this type of intentional anxiety-reduction technique is reduced heart rate and blood pressure, as well as the ability to process stressors. (6)
One notable aspect we love about the Breathwrk app is its customization options, which allow users to personalize their breathing sessions according to their preferences and needs. Whether someone prefers shorter sessions during a hectic day or longer sessions for deeper relaxation, the app accommodates diverse schedules and lifestyles. Additionally, the app tracks progress over time, providing users with insights into their breathing patterns and improvements in managing anxiety.
Despite its many strengths, some users may find the Breathwrk app lacking in certain areas. While the guided breathing exercises are beneficial, the app could benefit from additional features such as mindfulness exercises or cognitive behavioral therapy techniques to provide a more comprehensive approach to anxiety management.
Furthermore, while the app offers a free trial, its subscription model might deter some users from fully committing to long-term use. Overall, the Breathwrk app serves as a valuable tool for individuals seeking relief from anxiety through structured breathing exercises to promote parasympathetic nervous system (PNS) dominance. This is helpful, especially over time, as it provides calming and relaxation cues to the body and mind offering a holistic approach to improve well-being and anxiety. (6)
As a therapist trained in biofeedback, I love how it supports mind-body attunement through the breath while providing psychoeducation. Breathing exercises support improved markers of heart rate variability, HRV, and vagal tone, supporting our body with anxiety by promoting an emphasized activation of the PNS. This is important as it helps to put a break on the stress response, helping us to get out of fight or flight or sympathetic nervous system (SNS) dominance.
What customers are saying
Breathwrk has over 17,000 ratings on the Apple App Store, averaging 4.8 stars out of 5. Users love how effective the guided breathing sessions are and that there are free options to try out before purchasing.
“Breathing exercises have been what I’ve needed the most for most of my adult life,” begins Apple App Store user with the username “rph9121.” “I’ve been suffering this year with severe depression, anxiety, and Complex PTSD. I’ve only had it for less than a week, but it is amazing. There are so many different moods and situations to choose from, depending on what you need at the time. And, you can schedule the short breathing sessions for whatever days and times you choose—my favorite feature!”
“I really enjoy the app. I use the calming one the most when I am feeling more anxious and it definitely helps calm my breathing down.”
—“Alyna.marie03,” Apple App Store Reviewer
Some users note that some of the breathing exercises offered are too fast.
“One ten-minute session made me feel like I was hyperventilating. The instructors counting was fast and uneven,” states Apple App Store user “Baissez Moi.”
Specs
| Price | $9 monthly. or $49 yearly IOS; $12 monthly or $69 yearly, Android |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Notable content | Breathing exercises |
| Free trial | 1 week |
Best free anxiety app: Medito Meditation & Wellness
Key product features
What you should know
Medito Meditation and Wellness distinguishes itself by delivering a strong meditation product and diverse services for all users, regardless of budget.
- Offers a vast array of mindfulness meditation properties based on clinical, evidence-based content
- The app is best for those on a budget looking to meditate.
- Supports reductions in stress, improved sleep, countless mindfulness meditation exercises, and relaxation techniques.
Why we like Medito: Meditation & Wellness as best for budget
We consider this the best budget app for anxiety due to its free price, user-friendly interface, gentle guided meditations, and accessible content. It provides welcoming and engaging meditation exercises with a variety of guided sessions with soothing music to have calming effects on the body and mind. These sessions have a focus on relaxation, stress reduction, and mindfulness.
We love that the app also offers features such as customizable session lengths, soothing background music, and progress tracking to support beginners in establishing regular meditation practice and tracking their growth over time.
Music has been suggested to play a role in managing anxiety by eliciting both body and mind benefits. In addition to inducing favorable changes in the brain—including structure and function—soothing music can also improve markers of heart rate variability (HRV), which is important in the management of anxiety. (7) (8)
Additionally, music is a way to keep a meditation practice consistent because many people are drawn to music to improve relaxation and to seek familiarity and comfort. Ms. Johnson shares, “It is helpful to be able to fully customize your meditation practice with features like music and session length, if nothing else, to increase your ability to adhere to the program and gain benefits.”
What customers are saying
With over 2,000 ratings, averaging 4.9 out of 5 stars on the Apple App Store, Medito is well-loved for its affordability and lack of advertisements.
One Apple App Store user, Meg, was skeptical at first. “I have been really stressed lately, and we have been studying mental health and meditation in school, so I really wanted to see if meditation could actually help me,” they begin. “The problem was literally every single other app either cost money to initially buy the app, or it was free and then had a subscription. I was shocked when I opened the app and saw that everything was available to me. This is the perfect meditation app, with everything you need for things such as stress, anxiety, pandemic stress, sleep, and even a section for beginners. I have only used these meditations for a few days, but they are amazing, I highly recommend this app to everyone.”
“No payment, no account set-up, no tracking, no advertisements, and no sharing on social media pop-up. It’s the best and it’s everything that every other app should be. Meditation should be free. I sleep better, I eat better, I am more compassionate, and I am much more aware of my thoughts and actions.”
—Grason W., Apple App Store Reviewer
Most critical reviews for this app note issues with glitches and crashes, which typically are solved with updates.
“I downloaded it today and when I open it nothing shows up. It says I may be offline or there’s a hiccup on my end,” complains Apple App Store user with the username “Mandagrl1.”
Specs
| Price | Free |
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| Notable content | Music for anxiety |
| Free trial | N/A |
Best anxiety app for beginners: Rootd
Key product features
What you should know
Rootd supports the identification of feelings related to anxiety and panic attacks. This provides a simple way to help reduce a panic attack as it happens while also learning how to prevent future anxiety and panic.
- Supports emotional attunement and understanding of where anxiety comes from with daily check-ins, tracking progress over time helping users be aware of patterns.
- Provides in-the-moment support for heightened anxiety and induced panic. While this is a great feature, it may be misleading for those with more significant anxiety and panic disorder.
- Provides psychoeducation regarding how panic attacks manifest in the body and mind.
Why we like Rootd as best for beginners
Rootd is a comprehensive mobile app designed to provide support and tools for individuals struggling with anxiety. From its intuitive interface to its vast array of features, Rootd offers a holistic approach to anxiety management. The app greeted us with a calming design and easy navigation, immediately setting a soothing tone for those seeking relief. We noticed it offers a variety of resources, including guided breathing exercises, mindfulness meditations, visualizations, and informative articles, all aimed at helping users understand and cope with their anxiety.
We found that Rootd’s strongest feature is its panic button, which provides immediate support during moments of heightened anxiety or induced panic. However, this can be misleading for those with significant full-blown panic attacks requiring more support or intervention. With that said, users are guided through a series of calming exercises and techniques to help them reground and self-soothe, providing support that may not be otherwise provided. In this way, this feature can be valuable for those experiencing acute symptoms of anxiety.
This app also incorporates tracking tools to monitor anxiety levels and identify patterns over time, supporting users with increased insights into their anxiety, as well as observed triggers for their continued progress.
Based on our testing, some users may find its subscription-based model a potential drawback. However, the app does offer a free version with limited access to its resources, allowing users to explore its benefits before committing to a subscription.
Overall, Rootd stands out as a valuable companion for anyone navigating the complexities of anxiety, providing accessible tools and support to help individuals. I love how it provides insight and psycho-education on anxiety from a body and mind perspective, teaching those who experience heightened anxiety or induced panic how it manifests in the body and mind. (9)
What customers are saying
Rootd has over 7,000 ratings with an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 with users boasting about the effectiveness of the app for immediate panic attacks and similar symptoms.
“I downloaded Rootd in a frantic attempt to find some kind of relief from panic attacks and anxiety as I waited for my first therapy appointment,” begins Apple App Store user Cassidy McClure.
“Knowing the panic button was in my pocket helped me to stay calm during my flight, and I didn’t even need to use it! I love the different approaches to ending your panic attack based on how strongly you’re feeling as well. Plus, you’ve got access to short and long-term practices and tools to help you truly start to heal. I’m really grateful this exists.”
—Cassidy McClure, Apple App Store Reviewer
Another Apple App Store user with the username “Abdjdjskdj” loves how supported they feel since downloading this app, stating, “This is a breath of fresh air. It makes me feel supported like I’m not going through this alone. There are two options for when you need help, which adjusts to your mood, depending if you want to be comforted or if you feel like fighting your anxiety that day. If you deal with anxiety on a daily basis or get attacks, I urge you to get this app.”
Many users complain about the lack of free content available on the app, which causes them more anxiety.
“The first thing you see when you try to open the app is a paywall for the premium options,” complains Apple App Store user with the username “Journeyman2015.” “Other apps are polite enough to let you poke around and judge whether it has value before trying to dive into my wallet and this is not one of them.”
Specs
| Price | Limited free content, $9.99 monthly, $79.99 yearly |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Notable content | Panic-induced symptom support |
| Free trial | 4 months free of yearly plan |
Best anxiety app for insomnia: Calm
Key product features
What you should know
Calm differentiates itself from other meditation apps by its high-quality, research-backed sleep content.
- This app is best known for its expansive library of sleep stories, some of which were recorded by well-known celebrities like Harry Styles.
- Calm offers evidence-based strategies for reducing stress with ambient music and soothing sounds
- The app is best for those looking for an audio experience to improve their anxiety and sleep
- Provides clinically proven content in the realm of sleep with bedtime stories and a sleep timer
Why we like Calm as best for insomnia
Calm, with its comprehensive suite of features for sleep and anxiety management, stands out as a valuable tool. Its soothing interface, coupled with an extensive library of guided meditations, sleep stories, and breathing exercises, offers support for anxiety and sleep. Calm offers support to those struggling with sleep disruptions or anxious thoughts. This is significant as anxiety often presents with unique and complex sleep challenges, which further compound it. Compromised sleep can further lead to anxiety via a number of alterations in the body and mind—such as inducing shifts in the microbiome and leading to increased inflammation—all of which can impede mental health. (10) (11) Sleep disturbances, including insomnia, are highly correlated to the development or exacerbation of anxiety symptoms; conversely, anxiety can also cause disrupted sleep or difficulty falling asleep. (12)
While testing the app, we found its design user-friendly and its options customizable. The app feels intuitive to navigate, empowering users to effortlessly integrate mindfulness practices into their daily routines. Despite offering a free trial, the full range of Calm’s offerings is reserved for paid subscriptions, potentially limiting access for those with financial limitations. While the app contains an extensive library of content, some users may desire more frequent updates or personalized recommendations to support their anxiety and sleep.
What customers are saying
With nearly two million ratings on the Apple App Store, Calm has an average of 4.8 stars out of 5. App users love the variety of features to help them relax and get ready for sleep.
“I have had trouble falling asleep for years and was honestly skeptical that an app would put me to sleep. Boy, was I wrong. I love the different options—sleep stories, music, meditation—each one is interesting, and while I can’t say I’ve managed to get to the end of a story, well, that’s the point. I’m out within five minutes. This is a must-have app.”
—“Ak hockey907,” Apple App Store Reviewer
“I’ve always struggled with anxiety and not being able to calm down,” begins Apple App Store user with the username “Hobokittycat.” “All of the features that this app has to offer really help me when I’m studying (I like having soundscapes or music on), relaxing (breathing exercises or meditation), and getting ready for bed (sleep stories and body scans). It is so worth it to pay for the subscription, and even before I paid for the subscription there was a lot of content available.”
In contrast, some negative reviews complain about decision fatigue, finding there to be too many options to choose from.
Apple App Store user with the username “keepitsimple99” says, “Ever get an app and it has so much content that you just wonder why nothing on it seems appealing? This is that app. Feels like it’s trying to be all the things to all people with no clear purpose.”
Specs
| Price | $14.99 monthly, $69.99 yearly |
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| Notable content | Sleep sound and stories |
| Free trial | One week |
Best anxiety app for journaling: DailyBean
Key product features
What you should know
DailyBean provides high-quality yet simple and efficient journaling for users seeking additional support with anxiety and attunement.
- Supports increased understanding and insight of anxiety
- Provides a valuable tool to be utilized in between therapy sessions
- Offers users support by encouraging them to be aware of their thoughts and emotions with mindfulness
Why we like Daily Bean for best for journaling
This app offers a minimalist approach to journaling, serving as a complementary adjunct to therapy for those with anxiety. Its simplicity is its strength, providing a straightforward platform for users to take note of and express their thoughts and emotions without feeling overwhelmed. The app’s clean interface and easy-to-use features make it accessible even for those experiencing heightened anxiety symptoms. With DailyBean, users can quickly jot down their thoughts, worries, or reflections. This helps in increasing awareness and gaining insight in the midst of anxiety-induced distress. While more research is needed, journaling has shown promise in terms of anxiety. This app is best as an adjunct tool to therapy relative to anxiety.
Therapist Ms. Johnson shares, “Many of my therapy clients benefit from regular journaling and sometimes bring their journal or app to therapy sessions. They notice feeling like they can better separate themselves from their emotions and life stressors; it helps them process.”
One of DailyBean’s notable features we love is its focus on gratitude, which research also supports as beneficial in conquering difficulty. This app prompts users to record daily affirmations or moments of gratitude, fostering a mindset shift.
Additionally, it allows users to set reminders for journaling sessions, providing gentle nudges to engage in the therapeutic practice regularly, which can be instrumental in managing anxiety in the long term. It also tracks emotions by selecting cute beans that can be an uplifting way of supporting emotional attunement and insight.
While DailyBean excels in its simplicity and focus on gratitude, some users may desire additional features for a more comprehensive experience. Integrating tools for tracking anxiety symptoms or providing guided prompts tailored to anxiety management could improve the app’s utility for users seeking more targeted support.
What customers are saying
DailyBean has over 53,000 ratings on the Apple App Store, averaging 4.8 stars out of 5.
One Apple App Store user with the username “Thisisstacia” finds it useful and interesting.
“I absolutely love this app. I downloaded it because the beans were just so cute. I’m terrible at making habits, which is actually one of the reasons I wanted a mood tracker, so I was afraid I’d get bored of this app and stop using it. It’s been a month now, and I love that it lets me see my stats comparing what emotions I felt with what activities I did, I love the mood chart, and I love the icons for each selection. it’s just so great.”
—”Thisisstacia,” Apple App Store Reviewer
“The past few years for me have been the most difficult ones I have ever faced,” begins Apple App Store user with the username “Cancer Jajskwkkwbw.” “If it weren’t for DailyBean, mentally-impacting moments would never be reflected. This app allows me to check my moods every day to see how much progress I’ve made monthly. You can also create your own event markers to place on any day, so I can say that I biked Monday and Wednesday with a custom icon.”
Many negative reviews complain about the excessive ads.
“You have to watch long ads for every single time you track your mood. It made the app extremely unenjoyable and ruined the experience for me,” says Apple App Store user with the username “Afrizit.”
Specs
| Price | $3.99 monthly, $20 yearly |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Notable content | Gratitude |
| Free trial | One week |
Best anxiety app for kids: Smiling Mind: Meditation App
Key product features
What you should know
Smiling Minds distinguishes itself in the realm of meditation apps by providing free services to improve accessibility to emotional well-being.
- Delivers free, engaging, evidence-based content for children developed by psychologists and educators
- Supports integration of mindfulness and emotional regulation skills—such as noticing emotions—essential for anxiety.
Why we like Smiling Minds as best for kids
Developed by psychologists and educators with a library of guided meditations, mindfulness exercises, and relaxation techniques, Smiling Minds offers a holistic approach to improved well-being. We noted that this app has engaging, child-age-appropriate learning content, with some great mindfulness and meditation exercises.
Anxiety among children has been on the rise, even before numbers climbed significantly with the Covid-19 pandemic. Children can experience anxiety from a young age due to environmental stressors and having to adapt to new settings in their early school years constantly. Early in childhood, it can be difficult to differentiate between physical and emotional health symptoms due to overlap in presentation (e.g., stomach aches). (13)
Smiling Minds supports the integration of these exercises with emotional regulation and self-awareness skills. We love this aspect of it as mindfulness has been shown to be an effective tool for managing anxiety in children. (14) This app is based on evidence-based practices to cultivate mindfulness relative to the body and mind—such as bringing awareness to difficult emotions in a neutral way and supporting emotional regulation and confidence in children.
As a therapist who values mindfulness for kids, this foundational aspect is what I love as it illustrates that all feelings are valid and part of the human experience. This supports children with better attunement to their emotions rather than suppressing them.
What customers are saying
With over 4,000 ratings on the Apple App Store, averaging 4.8 stars out of 5, Smiling Mind is well-received thanks to its meditation sessions and accessible mental health tools.
One Apple App Store user with the username “Eliteballer” states, “I am a teenager. Throughout my life so far, I have dealt with many stressful situations. From big basketball matches to big tests and exams to self-esteem to personal issues. All of which have caused without a doubt, unreasonable and unnecessarily high amounts of stress.Smiling minds have made things so much easier and less stressful. It has made me focus on my breathing through stressful situations. It has also made me more calmer and relaxed as a person. I am able to go day to day with a relaxed and healthy and piece of mind thanks to this app.”
“I love this app! It’s easy to use, has dark mode, you can easily see your progress, and it walks you through the process step-by-step. Most of the meditation apps I’ve seen require a purchase to gain access to more than one super short meditation, but with this app, you can do multiple meditations and select meditations for specific areas you’re trying to be more mindful in.”
—“Chlo3138,” Apple App Store Reviewer
Most negative reviews for the app in the Apple App Store complain about issues with crashing.
“I had the app for months and loved it,” begins Apple App Store user with the username “Snukubg0421.” “Now it doesn’t work. I get an error message when I try to login.”
Specs
| Price | Free |
| Platform | Android, iOS |
| Notable content | Emotional regulation |
| Free trial | N/A |
Best anxiety app for meditation: BetterMe: Mental Health
Key product features
What you should know
BetterMe Mental Health has a number of guided meditation exercises and customizable plans to help reduce anxiety and improve your mental health.
- Meditation courses for improved sleep, relationships, stress management, and work productivity
- Has a wide range of calming nature sounds to help users relax
- Personalized plans to help you structure and plan your day to reach goals.
Why we like BetterMe: Mental Health for best meditation
From a therapist’s perspective, BetterMe: Mental Health offers a comprehensive platform for individuals seeking support for anxiety. The app provides users with access to a variety of tools and resources, including guided meditations, mood tracking, and CBT techniques, aligned with evidence-based practices. This alignment provides users with engaging techniques that have been shown to support anxiety management.
Moreover, this app incorporates elements of psychoeducation, providing users with valuable insights into the nature of their anxiety and the underlying mechanisms of various coping strategies. This educational component can complement therapy sessions by reinforcing concepts discussed during sessions and empowering clients to take an active role.
Like other mental health apps, BetterMe: Mental Health’s user-friendly interface and customizable features make it accessible to individuals at different stages of their therapeutic process, from beginners exploring self-help tools to those seeking supplementary support alongside traditional psychotherapy.
While this app has many strengths for supplemental support, it does not substitute for therapy or measure up to in-person therapy with individualized interventions that consider a client’s full history. I would not recommend this app to those seeking more intense support with anxiety. This tool is a valuable tool to utilize in conjunction with in-person therapy.
What customers are saying
BetterMe: Mental Health has over 12,000 ratings on the Apple App Store, averaging 4.7 stars out of 5. Users love that the app helps them stay calm and reduces anxiety and stress.
“I personally love this app,” begins Apple App Store user with the username “KotaBear.” “It’s helping me sleep, it’s helping me be more mindful of myself and how I should be, and I haven’t clenched my jaw in days. It’s super helpful, considering I’ve been through too much trauma, it’s really helped.”
“I’m so grateful for this app. It helps me stay calm and reduces my fear and all my stress. It’s soothing and relaxing, I just feel better when I am able to just be able to breathe. It helps me be more calm and feel like myself again.”
—“LunaAngel27,” Apple App Store Reviewer
Many negative reviews complain about the paywall, preventing them from accessing the app’s content.
“I wanted to try this app and went through a test but was blocked by an unoptional paywall,” complains Apple App Store user Samantha. “I didn’t even get to use the app at all and I’m very disappointed.”
Specs
| Price | Free for basic plan, $14.99 monthly, premium $69.99 yearly |
| Platform | iOS, Android |
| Notable content | Stress relieving techniques |
| Free trial | Free, limited basic content |
How we test apps for anxiety
Mental health is an integral part of our overall well-being, significantly affecting our quality of life, productivity, and relationships. In today’s evolving digital age, teletherapy has emerged as a vital tool in managing and improving mental well-being. Teletherapy offers convenience, privacy, and accessibility for users seeking support for anxiety and depression or for maintaining their overall mental health. Read the full teletherapy testing methodology for more information.
Testing criteria
Therapist quality—30%
A top-notch teletherapy service should feel both personal and professional, not impersonal or generic. It should connect users with certified and experienced therapists, not unqualified individuals. Here’s what we look for:
- Expertise
- Personalization
- Interaction quality
Accessibility and convenience—30%
Teletherapy directly impacts an individual’s ability to seek, engage with, and benefit from mental health services. Whether it’s a scheduling issue, lack of transportation, or being physically unable to see a therapist in person, everyone’s situation is different. Teletherapy is here to help change that. With the convenience of teletherapy being a significant advantage, we evaluate:
- Ease of use
- Availability
- Platform reliability
Cost and value—20%
Unfortunately, mental health services are not a financial privilege for most people who don’t have insurance that covers it. In an era where mental health care is more necessary, yet often more expensive than ever, assessing the cost-effectiveness of teletherapy services becomes not just relevant but essential.
Here’s what we factor into a teletherapy’s cost and value rating:
- Pricing transparency
- Insurance and coverage
- Value for money
Support and resources—10%
Good mental health habits don’t end after each session. It’s a constant task we must continue to practice. Access to additional support and resources is invaluable for clients seeking to deepen their understanding of mental health issues, learn additional coping strategies, or continue therapeutic work in between sessions. Beyond the therapy sessions, additional support can enhance the therapeutic experience.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Supplementary materials
- Customer support
- Aftercare
Privacy and security—10%
While teletherapy is an incredibly convenient way to seek mental health, it poses some risks. Maintaining client confidentiality and data security is paramount in teletherapy. As clients entrust teletherapy services with their mental health information, stories, and vulnerabilities, the responsibility of these platforms to protect such information is paramount.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Compliance with HIPAA and data protection laws
- Encryption and security measures
- Anonymity options
FAQs
Do apps for anxiety work?
Yes. While anxiety treatment looks different for everyone, anxiety apps can be effective in reducing anxiety, understanding the roots of anxiety, and promoting neuroplasticity in the brain, supporting new connections in helping to negate anxiety.
Is there a free anxiety app?
Yes, there are a few free, valuable anxiety apps that may be helpful for users as a complementary tool to therapy. Some apps, like BetterMe: Mental Health and Rootd offer limited free content to try out the app. Mindshift CBT, Medito: Meditation & Wellness, and Smiling Minds are all free apps listed in this review.
Are anxiety apps as good as seeing a mental health provider?
No. Anxiety apps, while helpful, are not a substitute for a mental health provider. These apps provide tools for navigating anxiety but are not in lieu of mental health treatment, with the exception of Betterhelp, which provides therapy for those who may benefit from it (not with significant mental health challenges).
How much do apps for anxiety cost?
Anxiety apps range in cost from free with limited content to full-priced subscriptions.
Who shouldn’t use apps for anxiety?
Individuals seeking higher clinical support requiring immediate intervention should not solely use these apps and should be informed about their best use.
Our experts
Rychel Johnson, M.S., LCPC
Rychel is a licensed clinical professional counselor in Kansas. She owns a private practice specializing in anxiety treatment and social skills development. Rychel also enjoys extensive road trips and spending time with her husband, daughter, and two cats.
Krista Manning
Krista Manning is an accomplished medical copy editor and fact-checker who stands out in the pharmaceutical, health, and wellness domains. With a meticulous eye for detail and a command of medical language, Krista ensures the accuracy and clarity of content. Beyond her professional expertise, Krista is an advocate for mental health awareness. Recognizing the crucial intersection of psychological and physical well-being, she actively contributes to projects that promote mental health awareness within the healthcare narrative. Krista’s commitment extends beyond the pages she edits, emphasizing the holistic nature of health communication.
Lauren Teeter, MS, MSW, CNS, LCSW
Fortune Recommends Mental Health Writer
About Author
Lauren Teeter, MS, CNS, MSW, LCSW:
Lauren is a functional nutritionist (CNS) and licensed therapist (LCSW) who takes an integrative and functional approach to mental health. Lauren received her undergraduate degree in Honors Psychology from Rhode Island College, as well as her masters in Clinical Social Work. She also has a masters of science in Human Nutrition from The University of Bridgeport.