Caregiver Resources - Helpful Apps

AIMS can be used by anyone coping with anger problems. The AIMS app is based on the Anger and Irritability Management Skills online self-help course. The app provides users with education about anger, opportunities for finding support, the ability to create an anger management plan, anger tracking, and tools to help manage angry reactions. Users can also create custom tools based on their preferences, and can integrate their own contacts, photos, and music. The AIMS app may be used alone, or in combination with the online course or in-person therapy.

Website: https://mobile.va.gov/app/anger-and-irritability-management-skills-aims

Mindfulness means noticing and paying attention to what is going on in the present moment, without passing judgment on it. Mindfulness has been shown to be effective for reducing stress, improving emotional balance, increasing self-awareness, helping with anxiety and depression, and coping more effectively with chronic pain.

The app provides a gradual, self-guided training program designed to help you understand and adopt a simple mindfulness practice. Mindfulness Coach also offers a library of information about mindfulness, 12 audio-guided mindfulness exercises, a growing catalog of additional exercises available for free download, goal-setting and tracking, a mindfulness mastery assessment to help you track your progress over time, customizable reminders, and access to other support and crisis resources.

Website: https://mobile.va.gov/app/mindfulness-coach

Mood Coach is an app to learn and practice Behavioral Activation. This app is designed to help you boost your mood through participation in positive activities. You can make a plan with positive activities and track your progress.

This app provides

• Scheduling of positive activities for your selected values
• An activity log for tracking your progress
• A daily mood rating tool
• Education about depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, and Behavioral Activation
• The PHQ-9 assessment for tracking symptoms of depression

Mood Coach can be used on its own by those who would like mood management tools, or to augment face-to-face care with a healthcare professional. It is not intended to replace therapy for those who need it.

Website: https://mobile.va.gov/app/mood-coach

Moving Forward provides on-the-go tools and teaches problem solving skills to overcome obstacles and deal with stress. The app is useful for anyone with stressful problems. It is especially helpful in managing challenges such as: balancing school and family life, financial difficulties, relationship problems, difficult career decisions, and coping with physical injuries.

Website: https://mobile.va.gov/app/moving-forward

Parenting2Go helps Service members reconnect with their children and provides convenient tools to strengthen parenting skills. Parents can find quick parenting advice; relaxation tools to use when frustrated or stressed; tools to improve their relationship with their children through positive communication; and strategies to switch gears between military life and home. The app addresses challenges that come with parenting children of all ages and backgrounds. The app also offers guidance for seeking professional help and access to additional resources.

Website: https://mobile.va.gov/app/parenting2go