What are online tools and apps?
Online tools and apps are digital resources that can support your wellbeing through your phone, computer or tablet.
They can include:
- mental health and wellbeing apps
- online counselling or telehealth services
- self-guided programs and courses
- tracking tools, such as mood, sleep or activity trackers
- peer support communities or webchat services
These tools can offer flexible support that you can use in your own time and space.
How online tools and apps can help
Online tools and apps can support wellbeing in different ways.
Flexible and accessible support
Online tools and apps can:
- be used anytime and from almost anywhere
- help if you live in a rural or remote area
- provide support outside standard service hours
Digital mental health services are designed to be easy to access and available when support is needed.
Support in the moment
Some tools can help when you need support straight away. They can:
- provide help during stress or anxiety
- offer strategies to manage thoughts, emotions or behaviours
- help you take small steps when other support is not immediately available
Many digital tools are designed to provide on-demand support and help people manage their wellbeing between appointments or services.
Practical tools and strategies
Depending on the service, online tools and apps may include:
- guided breathing, relaxation or mindfulness exercises
- mood tracking and journaling
- sleep tools and habit-building features
- self-guided programs based on approaches such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
These features can help you build practical skills to manage stress, mood and everyday challenges.
Privacy and choice
Online tools and apps can also offer:
- private support that you can use at your own pace
- a starting point if you are unsure about seeking help
- different options to suit different needs
For some people, digital tools offer a more comfortable way to explore support before speaking with someone directly.
Connection to services and support
Some online tools can also help you connect with broader support by:
- linking you to online counselling or telehealth
- providing access to trained professionals or peer support
- helping you navigate services and next steps
Online tools can connect people with professional support or act as a pathway into broader services.
Why this matters for veterans and families
For veterans and families of veterans, getting support can sometimes be affected by location, service availability, or personal preference.
Online tools and apps can help by:
- making support more accessible and immediate
- providing options for people who prefer private or flexible support
- supporting transition, stress and everyday challenges
- helping people stay connected to services, even when face-to-face care is harder to access
- Digital tools can extend support beyond traditional services, making it easier to access help when it’s needed.
How online tools and apps fit into your wellbeing
Wellbeing is about your whole life—not just your health.
Online tools and apps can support different parts of wellbeing, including:
- Mental wellbeing – managing stress, anxiety and mood
- Daily living – building habits and routines
- Connection – accessing support and community
- Health management – tracking symptoms and progress
They can be helpful on their own, or alongside other supports such as counselling, peer support or community activities.
Using online tools safely
Online tools can be helpful, but they are not the right fit for every situation.
It’s helpful to keep in mind:
- Look for apps or services that are trusted or evidence-based
- Be cautious about sharing personal or sensitive information
- Remember that apps may not suit more complex needs
- Seek professional support if things feel overwhelming or are not improving
Digital tools work best as part of a broader approach to your wellbeing.
Getting started
You could try:
- A wellbeing or mindfulness app
- An online self-help program
- A telehealth or online counselling service
- A trusted government or community website
You don’t have to use everything. Starting with one tool that feels relevant to you can be enough.
Examples of trusted tools and apps
Some online tools and apps are funded by government, run by government services, or listed by trusted government-backed services. Here are some examples.
| Tool or service | What it offers | Who it may suit | Why it is credible |
| Healthdirect app | Symptom checker, service finder, trusted health information, and access to some personal health record information. | People looking for general health and wellbeing information and guidance on what to do next. | Provided by Healthdirect Australia and available through the healthdirect website. |
| MindSpot | Free online assessment, treatment courses, teletherapy, and practical tools for anxiety, depression, stress, PTSD, sleep, pain and other concerns. | Adults who want structured digital mental health support, with or without therapist guidance. | Funded by the Australian Government and delivered by Macquarie University Health. |
| Mental Health Online | Free online information, assessment, self-guided programs, and therapist-assisted programs for common mental health concerns. | People looking for flexible online programs to build skills and manage symptoms. | Provided by Swinburne University of Technology and funded by the Australian Government. |
| WellMob | A collection of online resources, apps, websites, videos, podcasts and helplines focused on social, emotional and cultural wellbeing. | Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, communities, and workers supporting wellbeing. | Developed with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander guidance and funded by the Australian Government. |
| Healthdirect wellbeing apps directory | A directory of health and wellbeing apps and online programs from trusted information partners. | People who want to compare different tools before choosing one. | Hosted by healthdirect and draws on trusted information partners. |
Note: Apps can change or be removed. Check the Apple App Store or Google Play to see whether the app is still available and works on your device.
Privacy note: Before you use an app or tool, check what information it asks for, who can see it, and if it shares your data. It can also help to read the privacy policy and check the app permissions.
Online tools are one option
Digital tools can support your wellbeing, but they don’t replace human connection. Talking to someone you trust or a professional can still make an important difference.
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