Mental health remains one of the most common and challenging health issues in our society – with access to care proving increasingly difficult due to a range of factors including psychologist and psychiatrist shortages, long waiting times and cost.
Could apps and online therapy be an effective interim measure? In the last federal budget, funding for an online mental health care service, based on a successful UK model, was announced. Aimed at prevention, it’ll encompass a range of tools like apps, websites and free telehealth therapy sessions. Not slated to start until January 2026, we thought it might be helpful to have a look at what’s already available.
Many of the programs outlined below offer help for those wanting to improve their mental health and well-being, manage stress or prevent the onset of mental illness. Most have evidence for effectiveness at treating mild to moderate depression, anxiety, phobias and sleep problems (and more). Whilst not necessarily a replacement for face-to-face care, they may be a good interim option for some people whilst waiting for an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist, or even to support carers of those living with mental illness.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the options.
myCompass
A free, online self-help course designed by the Black Dog Institute consisting of 14 modules teaching cognitive behavioural techniques to manage mood and stress. It can be done at your own pace, and best results are seen after 7 weeks. Each module takes around 10-15 minutes to complete. Recommended for ages 18-75, with studies showing improvement in mild-moderate symptoms of depression, anxiety or stress.
Find out moreMindSpot Clinic
Billed as ‘Australia’s first free online mental health clinic”, and developed by researchers at Macquarie University, MindSpot clinic offers Australians aged 18 years and over support for conditions like depression, anxiety, stress, worry, panic, chronic pain and distress due to chronic illness.
After completing an online assessment that takes around 20-30 minutes, you get immediate feedback and are then offered an appointment to speak to one of the MindSpot therapists to discuss your results and treatment options. OR, you can enrol directly in one of their online treatment courses. Fully funded by the federal government.
Find out moreThis Way Up
Developed by clinicians and researchers at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney and the University of NSW, this is a comprehensive suite of 10 individual online psychology courses for a range of concerns including depression, generalised anxiety, social anxiety, health anxiety, panic, OCD, sleep, stress and even post-traumatic stress and chronic pain. Each course has 6 modules with options for self-paced or clinician supervised programs.
It’s backed up by studies too, with 80% of people who complete the course reporting they felt better, and 50% saying they no longer had any concerns! Access to the program is free if prescribed by your GP.
Find out moremoodgym
A free, interactive online program for people aged 16 and up designed by researchers at ANU to help prevent and manage symptoms of depression and anxiety. It involves 5 modules of self-help exercises and quizzes, with a number of clinical trials showing significant improvements (that last) after completing even just two modules. It’s fully funded by the federal government.
Find out moreOnline services for young people
Headspace
Headspace is a federal government funded service providing free phone, online and face-to-face counselling services for young people aged 12-25 who need support with their mental and physical (including sexual) health, alcohol and drug problems, even work and study support. The focus is on early intervention and their website is a treasure trove of easily accessible information. Kids and young adults can access anonymous online or phone support or find their nearest centre to visit.
Find out moreHeadspace supports parents and carers too – with online or phone support, and a free Partners in Parenting online course, designed by researchers at Monash University.
Find out moreSleep Ninja
A free, evidence-based smartphone app to help young people with sleep problems. Around 50% of mental illness starts in the early high school years, with sleep problems a significant contributing factor. Backed by the Black Dog Institute, this app for adolescents (ages 12-16) teaches them effective sleep strategies across six ‘training sessions’. Well worth a look.
Find out moreBrave – Online
A free, online program from the University of Queensland to help kids and young people aged 8-17 overcome anxiety (including social anxiety, separation anxiety, specific fears like dogs or needles, friendship or school performance worries). Features 10 sessions that teach skills in dealing with worry and anxiety through interactive games, quizzes and puzzles.
Studies have shown significant relief from symptoms after even only 2 sessions. There are also parent programs for different age groups, including one for parents of children aged 3-7.
Find out moreSmiling Mind
A free mindfulness and relaxation app designed by psychologists for young people, with studies showing it can help manage stress, anxiety, depression and boost resilience to improve general health and well-being. Worth a try no matter your age in our opinion!
Find out moreHaving said all this, if you are experiencing mental health issues, we always, ALWAYS, recommend seeing your GP.
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