In addition to therapy, there are many helpful online tools that can support your mental health if you have been sexually harmed. These digital tools are like interactive self-help books that teach a range of ways to manage your feelings, relax or enhance your overall mental health. They all use slightly different approaches, so there is likely to be one that is beneficial for you.
These digital tools are all completely free. You can use them whenever you need, in a place where you feel most comfortable. They are an excellent additional support if you’re already seeing an ACC-funded therapy provider, but they are also a good starting place before you think about making a Sensitive Claim or if you are waiting for your in-person therapy to begin.
Safe to talk coordinators can suggest which of these digital tools might be most helpful for you. Visit How Safe to Talk can help with Sensitive Claims for more information about all the ways we can help.
These digital tools mentioned below are not owned or operated by Safe to talk or ACC. But they are all based on science and clinically-proven mental health approaches that can improve the wellbeing of people who have experienced sexual harm.
Aunty Dee
Aunty Dee is a free online guide that helps you work through any problem. It doesn’t give answers but helps you think clearly about your options without feeling overwhelmed. Based on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) ideas, it supports you to find your own solutions and feel more in control.
Visit Aunty Dee websiteDepression.org.nz
This website offers facts, self-tests and tips for dealing with depression and anxiety. It helps you understand your feelings, prepare to ask for support and learn about helpful services.
Visit Depression.org.nz websiteHeadstrong
Headstrong is an app co-designed with rangatahi/young people and specifically intended for those aged 13-24. It has a friendly chatbot and quick activities to help manage stress, relationships, alcohol and other drug use, and feelings of low self-worth. Each skill is quick and can be used any time to boost wellbeing.
Find out more about the Headstrong appJust a Thought
Just a Thought has more than 15 free online courses based on CBT, for issues like low mood, anxiety, trouble sleeping, or substance use concerns. The courses are easy to use and proven to help improve mental health.
Visit Just a Thought websiteSPARX
SPARX is a fun video-game-style online program for young people that builds resilience through gameplay. Specifically designed for teenagers’ minds, it helps players identify their emotions and teaches proven therapy skills to handle low mood, anxiety and stress.
Visit SPARX websiteMental Health Foundation’s Wellbeing Hub
These web pages from the Mental Health Foundation have practical tips on feeling better and managing your mental wellbeing. This guidance can be used in a range of different situations.
Visit the Mental Health Foundation’s Wellbeing HubHealthify
Healthify is a general health advice website. It has detailed information on a range of health topics, which also include self-help and mental health advice.
Visit Healthify websiteDid you find this information helpful?
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