There are several relaxation techniques for anxiety and stress designed to help reduce anxiety and manage stress. They typically offer guided exercises, breathing techniques, meditation, and tools to track and manage mental health.
This article reviews some of the 10 best app options to consider along with additonal online resources for stress and anxiety management in Canada and the United States.
Difference Between Free App vs In-App Purchases vs Premium Subscriptions
A free app with in-app purchases is a mobile application that can be downloaded and used at no cost, but offers additional features, content, or services that can be bought within the app.
These in-app purchases might include options like removing ads, unlocking extra levels or tools, buying virtual items, or accessing premium content.
Free App with In-App Purchases
- Free to Download and Use: The core app is free.
- One-Time or Consumable Purchases: Users can make purchases as needed or unlock permanent features.
- Variety of Offerings: Offers both consumable purchases and non-consumable ones (e.g., an upgrade to a pro version).
- User Control: You buy when you want or need a specific feature.
Premium Subscription
- Recurring Payments: The user subscribes to a service for a recurring fee (monthly, yearly, etc.) to gain access to premium features or content.
- Access-Based Model: Subscription unlocks ongoing access to certain content or advanced features (e.g., no ads, exclusive features, or enhanced services).
- Continuous Value: Often used for apps that provide continuous value
Completely FREE App Resources for Anxiety and Stress Relief
There are only a few free app resources for stress and anxiety. Fortunately, You Tube offers a treasure trove of relaxing music for stress and anxiety. Two of them are shared here. Explore to your hearts’ content!
MindShift CBT
MindShift CBT is a self-help tool based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) that helps users manage their anxiety symptoms and learn healthy thinking. It is a free app for iOS and Android devices, developed by Anxiety Canada and supported by the BC Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions.
- Description: Created by Anxiety Canada, this app is designed to help manage anxiety using CBT principles.
- Features: Thought journals, anxiety check-ins, coping cards, guided relaxation, and goal setting.
- Suitable for: People looking to challenge negative thoughts and practice CBT exercises.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free.
Breathe2Relax
Users can lower their stress and reduce their anxiety with Breathe2Relax by learning how to reduce stress in their daily lives. The app was first designed for use by the military community but has been found to be beneficial for use by anyone.
This the relaxation app trains you on the “belly breathing” technique. Download a copy of this portable stress management tool from the Defence Health Agency (DHA) here.
- Description: A simple, effective app developed by the Department of Defense for stress management.
- Features: Breathing exercises with visual guides, educational videos on stress and anxiety.
- Suitable for: Anyone looking for quick, easy-to-follow breathing exercises for immediate stress relief.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free.
Free With In-App Purchases – Resources for Stress and Anxiety
Sanvello
The top-rated app for stress, anxiety, and depression with over 3 million users. Download on the App Store or get it on Google Play.
Sanvello provides 4 kinds of support: self care, peer support, coaching, and therapy. Helps manage stress levels so you can feel more in control, change negative and unhelpful thoughts and habits, set goals and better boundaries, and overcome barriers to change to handle life transitions.
- Description: Offers tools based on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and self-care.
- Features: Mood tracking, guided journeys, daily mood check-ins, and a community for support.
- Suitable for: Individuals looking for structured mental health support with therapeutic techniques.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free with in-app purchases (some content requires a premium subscription).
Calm – Music for Anxiety and Stress Relief
A popular and versatile app with different categories for meditation, sleep, work and wisdom, calm kids and movement. Calm your mind with 14 days of Calm for free. Build healthy habits to support mind & body with their programs & tools.
Relieve stress & anxiety with 50,000+ mins of science-backed content, Sleep better with 300+ Sleep Stories, meditations, and music for anxiety and stress relief.
- Description: A popular app with a focus on relaxation, sleep, and stress management.
- Features: Guided meditations, breathing exercises, sleep stories, music, and soothing soundscapes.
- Suitable for: Those seeking a mix of meditation and sleep support.
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Cost: Free with in-app purchases (full access requires a subscription).
Headspace
Headspace is an app that teaches you how to meditate with hundreds of exercises for mindfulness, sleep, focus and more. Learn how to apply mindfulness to your everyday activities, track your progress and join over 40 million users already getting some Headspace.
- Description: Provides structured meditation courses, quick stress-relief sessions, and tools to manage anxiety.
- Features: Mini sessions for quick relaxation, sleep meditations, animations to explain mindfulness.
- Suitable for: Beginners or those wanting a comprehensive introduction to meditation for stress relief.
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Cost: Free with limited access; full access requires a subscription.
Happify
- Description: Uses games and activities based on positive psychology to improve mood and reduce anxiety.
- Features: Interactive games, activities, and gratitude exercises.
- Suitable for: Individuals who prefer a playful, interactive approach to stress relief.
- Available on: iOS, Android, Web
- Cost: Free with in-app purchases (premium options available).
Youper
- Description: An AI-powered mental health assistant that guides you through self-reflection and therapeutic exercises.
- Features: Mood tracking, guided conversations, mindfulness practices, and CBT-based techniques.
- Suitable for: People seeking quick, AI-guided conversations to explore and manage their emotions.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free with in-app purchases.
Free With Premium Options Only
Moodpath
- Description: A mental health app that helps track emotions and provides guided exercises and resources.
- Features: Daily mood tracking, reflection prompts, and 150+ exercises to help alleviate anxiety and depression.
- Suitable for: Those who want to monitor their mental health over time and receive tailored resources.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free with premium options for advanced features.
Dare: Break Free from Anxiety
Stop panic attacks and end feelings of general anxiety. Face any anxious situation you’ve been avoiding such as driving, flying etc. and put an end to anxious or intrusive thoughts. Use the CORRECT natural supplements to relieve anxiety.
Boost your confidence and feel like your old self again. Fall asleep faster and with less anxiety each night. The book also comes with a free App for your smartphone as well as four audios for quick anxiety relief.
- Description: Based on the book “DARE,” this app uses mindfulness and evidence-based techniques to help users manage anxiety and panic.
- Features: Audio guides, breathing exercises, sleep aids, and a supportive community.
- Suitable for: People seeking practical tools for tackling anxiety and panic attacks.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free with premium options.
Rootd
- Description: Designed specifically for panic attacks and anxiety management.
- Features: Panic button for on-the-spot guidance, breathing exercises, anxiety logs, and lessons to understand anxiety.
- Suitable for: Those who experience panic attacks and need on-demand tools for immediate relief.
- Available on: iOS, Android
- Cost: Free with premium options.
Additional Online Resources for Stress and Anxiety Management
There are several websites, online communities, and resources available for anxiety and stress management in Canada and the United States. These platforms offer information, support groups, and tools for people dealing with anxiety and related mental health issues. While this list is not exhaustive, here are some notable options:
General Anxiety & Stress Relief / Mental Health Support (Canada & USA)
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
- Offers resources, articles, and community forums for anxiety, depression, and stress management.
- Online peer-to-peer support group.
- Mental Health America (MHA)
- Provides screening tools, resources for coping with anxiety and stress, and a supportive community.
- Online support groups and forums are available.
- MindShift CBT App by Anxiety Canada
- A mobile app that offers CBT-based tools and strategies for managing anxiety.
- Includes guided relaxation, thought journaling, and a community for connecting with others.
- CAMH (Centre for Addiction and Mental Health) (Canada)
- Canada’s leading mental health research center.
- Provides resources and online tools for stress and anxiety management.
2. Community-Based Forums and Peer Support
- 7 Cups
- A free, anonymous platform that connects people with trained volunteer listeners.
- Includes community forums, support groups, and tools for stress relief.
- Reddit – r/Anxiety
- A popular subreddit where users share experiences, ask for advice, and find peer support for managing anxiety.
- Moderated to ensure a safe, respectful environment.
- HealthUnlocked – Anxiety Support Community
- A community dedicated to those facing anxiety, offering a space to discuss symptoms, treatment options, and self-care strategies.
4. Online Therapy Platforms (Canada & USA)
- BetterHelp
- An online therapy platform that connects users with licensed therapists specializing in anxiety and stress management.
- Offers text, video, and phone sessions.
- Talkspace
- Similar to BetterHelp, Talkspace offers online therapy for anxiety and mental health support.
- Accessible via mobile and desktop, with multiple subscription options.
5. Helplines & Resources for Stress and Anxiety (Canada)
- Wellness Together Canada
- A Canadian government-funded service offering free mental health support, including self-guided tools, peer support, and live counseling.
- Kids Help Phone
- Offers mental health support for youth in Canada, including phone, text, and online chat options.
- Community forums and mental health resources available.
- BounceBack Ontario
- A free, self-guided program for anxiety and stress management in Ontario.
- Includes workbooks, coaching calls, and online tools.
6. Support for Specific Groups
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) (USA)
- Provides support groups, educational programs, and resources for individuals and families dealing with anxiety.
- Has a comprehensive list of support groups across the US.
These communities and resources are tailored to various needs, whether you’re looking for information, community support, therapy, or self-help tools.
How to Select – Relaxation Techniques for Anxiety and Stress
Consider what you’re looking to achieve—whether it’s tracking your mood, developing better coping mechanisms, or finding on-the-go support for panic attacks. Many of these apps have free trials, so you can explore a few to see which resonates most with your needs and preferences.
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FAQ – Anxiety and Stress Relief
Which type of apps are available on relaxation techniques for anxiety and stress?
Relaxation techniques for anxiety and stress apps are of 3 types – free, free with in-app purchases, and subscriptions. The main difference is that free apps with in-app purchases let users make ad hoc purchases, while premium subscriptions require a continuous payment for extended or ongoing access to content or features.
What are the best resources for stress and anxiety?
The best resources for stress and anxiety are guided exercises, breathing techniques, meditation, and tools to track and manage mental health.
References
Defence Health Agency: Fact Sheet – BREATHE2RELAX Portable Stress Management Tool. https://health.mil/Reference-Center/Fact-Sheets/2023/08/30/Breathe2Relax-App
