Explore how digital mental health tools, like those in the eMHPrac directory, can empower university students with accessible, evidence-based support for anxiety, depression, and wellbeing.

As someone working in the university sector, I’m lucky to witness a range of internal initiatives that support student mental health and wellbeing. From counselling services to dedicated wellbeing focused programs, there are many options for students to explore. However, not all students access these services, which is why digital mental health resources are becoming an essential part of the equation.

Australia is fortunate to have a wealth of high-quality online resources and programs designed to support mental health. Platforms like MindSpot and This Way Up provide evidence-based interventions that are accessible, affordable, and often free. These programs offer students a chance to address mental health challenges like anxiety, depression, or stress in a flexible and confidential way.

One organisation that stands out in helping young people navigate this complex digital mental health space is eMHPrac. Their digital mental health directory is the go-to resource for finding digital mental health resources based on need. They also summarise the evidence for these interventions (see this and this).

So what does the evidence say?

Whether you joined us straight from high school or are balancing your degree with work and family commitments, the verdict is clear: digital mental health is a legitimate part of the support mix.

Here is what the evidence tells us:

1. It is effective across the age spectrum. Clinical trials consistently show that digital mental health programs, especially those using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (i-CBT), can be just as effective as face-to-face therapy for anxiety and depression. This holds true whether you are 18 or 48; the skills used to manage stress and mood are universal.

2. Human support makes a difference. While self-guided apps are convenient for mild symptoms, the evidence shows that guided programs often yield better results. Programs that offer check-ins with a clinician or peer worker help keep you on track, which is helpful when the semester gets busy.

3. Choose the right tool for your stage of life. Not all apps are designed for the same audience. The recent guides highlight different evidence-based options depending on your needs:

• For the “School Leaver” cohort (Under 25s): If you are dealing with repetitive worry or “doom-spiraling,” the app Mello is specifically designed for young people (16-25) to help break negative thinking loops.

• For Comprehensive Treatment (All Ages): MindSpot and THIS WAY UP are the heavy-hitters. They offer structured, evidence-based courses for anxiety, depression, and stress that are effective for all adults. THIS WAY UP also has specific tracks for insomnia and chronic pain.

• For Burnout & Resilience: Smiling Mind is widely known, but it’s not just for kids. Trials with both university students and working adults have shown it can improve resilience and reduce burnout.

• For Alcohol Support: If university culture or life stress has impacted your drinking, Daybreak is an app backed by research that helps reduce alcohol intake and distress.

4. Finding Your Community. Peer support can be powerful, but it helps to find “your people.”

• ReachOut is fantastic for younger students seeking peer support and relatable stories.

• SANE Forums offer a moderated, safe community for adults managing more persistent or complex mental health challenges, trauma, or supporting others.

eMHPrac’s work highlights both the opportunities and challenges in this space. On the positive side, digital mental health resources are widely available and easy to try. Many can be completed privately, making them a great option for those not yet ready to open up to someone. They are often free or low-cost, reducing barriers to entry, and many are designed to work well on mobile devices – ideal for those of you who frequently access information on your phones.

These resources can also be validating, helping users recognise that their experiences are acknowledged challenges with evidence-based tools and techniques available to manage them. It’s important to note that digital mental health isn’t just about addressing mental illness. Some tools are designed to help build positive experiences into your mental health journey, offering a way to proactively support wellbeing.

And you don’t have to choose between these tools and going to see someone. In fact, these digital tools can be a good adjunct to counselling or private psychotherapy for those already seeking professional help. I know a couple of counsellors who utilise these tools in their practice. While these tools are generally not a replacement for face-to-face services or more intensive supports, their potential to complement existing options is undeniable.

There are some downsides. One of the classic challenges with digital tools is that people sign-up, use them for a while and then abandon them. In such cases the effects of the tool are likely to be minimal. This downside is usually addressed by some services using therapists to check-in on those using the tool.

Another limitation is that not all conditions respond to digital interventions. At the moment, the evidence for digital mental health interventions is strongest for conditions like anxiety and depression, while outcomes for other challenges, such as PTSD or ADHD, remain more mixed.

Challenges aside, for university students navigating the stresses of study, work, and life, these resources offer an empowering option. As someone who runs numerous mental health focused seminars and sessions each year, I know that while educational talks can reduce stigma and encourage help-seeking, they often aren’t enough to make meaningful impacts on mental health by themselves. Just like building physical fitness requires regular exercise, achieving lasting mental health benefits often requires ongoing investment and practice. Digital mental health tools can play a significant role in supporting this journey.

If you’ve never explored these tools AND feel like your mental health could use a tune-up, I encourage you to give them a try. Start by visiting the eMHPrac directory and browsing the catalogue. You might find something that is the perfect stepping stone you need toward better mental health. If you’re having trouble locating a program that might be relevant to your needs, feel free to get in touch for guidance and support.