‘Stress is so often a hidden problem in the workplace. Thrive has enabled thousands of employees to easily get the vital help they need in a confidential and effective way.’
Dr Andres Fonseca
CEO and Co-Founder of Thrive
What is Thrive?
Thrive is a company committed to not only helping reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, but also helping people who are struggling with their own mental health. All on a global scale. The UK is currently in something of a mental health crisis with 1 in 5 adults having suicidal thoughts, 75% of people with mental health problems never seeking professional help, suicide being the largest killer in men under 45, and 1 in 4 people experiencing a mental health problem in their lifetime. Because of these shocking statistics, the founders of Thrive created an accessible app which is fun and engaging to use whilst also providing key support in the management of common mental health conditions.
How does Thrive help?
Thrive have released an app, available on Google's Play Store or Apple's App Store, which uses effective techniques used in everyday therapy to help the user build resilience to stress, anxiety and mild depression. In completing the fun activities with Thrive, users can monitor and track their progress and cope better with everyday stresses. Some of the clinically proven techniques Thrive use include CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) and Mindfulness.
Does Thrive help?
I've been using the Thrive: Feel Stress Free* app for almost three weeks now. And whilst I wouldn't go so far as to say I'm cured (although, what even is cured?) I will say that using the Thrive app has helped me engage more with the world and cope better with the stress of everyday life. I'd best describe it as like having a caring friend in your pocket all the time. Whenever I find myself feeling stressed, I just reach for my phone and open the Thrive app. There I can track my progress, see what triggers me, and learn clinically proven methods of dealing with my anxiety attacks or low moods. There are also fun diversionary activities like tending to your own zen garden, which I find super relaxing to do before I go to bed at night.
Overall
My overall feeling about the Thrive app is a positive one. I think Thrive have introduced something really quite revolutionary with their app. I'm not sure there's anything quite like it out there yet. And perhaps more importantly than that, they've made something accessible. Because, as the statistics show, so many people who experience a mental health problem won't seek professional help. But with this app, they can receive some support and effective treatment in their own homes. In no way is this a replacement for going to your GP, or seeking out counselling, but it's a great tool to help improve your life in the meantime, or on the side. I've been attending weekly therapy sessions for the last 12 weeks or so, and in the last few weeks I've also been using Thrive, and I can see that together the two are doing me so much good. I'm so much better able to cope with what life throws at me than I ever used to be. So yes, I'd recommend Thrive: Feel Stress Free. But I'd also recommend visiting your GP and being honest with them. Because when you have a mental health problem, getting the right care is crucial. And whilst Thrive can help towards that, it can't be all of that. It can't be medication, a flesh-and-blood psychiatrist/support worker/counsellor. Don't be ashamed to seek out help if you need it.
Have you ever sought help for a mental health problem?
*I received this product in exchange for a review. All words and opinions are my own.
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