WellSpan Philhaven is offering a unique tool to help community residents deal with the stresses of the COVID-19 pandemic: free access to an app known as “the health club for your mind.”
Through October, Philhaven is offering a link that will allow any community member to subscribe to myStrength, a digital behavioral health service previously only available to WellSpan Philhaven patients and WellSpan Health employees. Once signed up, users will have a permanent subscription to the app.
myStrength offers evidence-based tools based on proven clinical models such as positive psychology, mindfulness and other interventions that can help people improve and sustain their mental health. The tools harness technology to help users build resiliency, manage stress, improve mood, sleep better and find daily inspiration.
WellSpan Philhaven therapist Jamie Wolfe says myStrength is a good tool for people of all ages, including teens, to improve their mental health.
“You can use the app around the clock, if you need a boost or some encouragement,” Wolfe said. “It’s available when you need it, which is a wonderful feature.”
Lilli Passarelli, 14, a myStrength user, said she likes to create her own inspirational quotes on the app, and enjoys the calming, meditation activities. Her mom, Jenn, says, the app provides good visual tools that help kids cope if they are feeling sad or anxious.
Studies show 74 percent of myStrength users experience improvement in depression scores. And it works quickly, with 70 percent of improvement happening within the first two weeks. For example, people with chronic pain reported improved functioning within the first two weeks and nearly a 50 percent reduction in the need for pain medication.
How does myStrength work?
- It offers users a private account to access personalized resources.
- It adjusts each day and with every interaction.
- It notes preferences, goals, current emotional states and ongoing life events.
- It includes interactive programs, in-the-moment coping tools and inspirational resources.
Learn more and sign-up with myStrength
