Relationship Problems: There’s an App for That!

We live in a busy, bustling world. Between juggling work stress and somehow finding the time for the rest, life can seem like one long to-do list.

(Graphic: 27707/Pixabay)

Unfortunately, stress and anxiety are the natural byproducts of our chaotic modern lifestyles, and when you are stressed and anxious, it is easy to let the health of your relationships deteriorate. Whether it is losing your temper with your partner, neglecting to spend meaningful time together or even battling the urge to find fun and excitement somewhere else, the side effects of stress can end up damaging your love life — sometimes to the point of no return.

But regardless of your romantic situation, it certainly doesn’t hurt to invest a little time and effort into your loved ones. Even the healthiest and most balanced of relationships can benefit from a little TLC.

Studies show that emotion-focused relationship counselling typically has a 75 percent success rate in increasing the reported happiness and satisfaction of interpersonal relationships. But traditional talk therapy can be expensive or inaccessible, and it is a notoriously difficult and lengthy process to find a therapist that you connect with and trust. Despite the strides that society has made towards the normalization of therapy, there is a lingering stigma that still surrounds seeking emotional or mental support from a professional. In short, therapy isn’t necessarily for everyone, even if everyone can benefit from it.

Luckily, as with most things these days, there is an app for that.

More and more couples are turning to online counseling to help them heal what is hurting. Apps like Talkspace, Togethr, LARKR, Happify and Lasting help you identify problems, get the same page as your partner and work through your rough patches more respectfully and effectively. But can an app really replace or act a supplement to the real-life experience of couples therapy?

Accessibility

With a counseling app, you can work through a session anywhere, anytime. Some apps even guarantee anonymity, so if that is a concern for you, you don’t need to worry about feeling exposed or embarrassed. When you feel safe, you are more likely to take the leap and try it out. Counseling apps sometimes work on a self-guided paradigm, so if you are nervous or hesitant about speaking to a professional, this is a great option for you. Finding a therapist you trust won’t be an issue!

Affordability

Counseling apps range from free, to a one-time cost, to paid monthly or yearly subscriptions, to pay-as-you-go sessions. Apps are some of the most affordable ways that you can obtain professional help, and you can choose the right plan for you and your partner based on your budget.

Effectiveness

The ultimate end-goal of counseling is to empower you to improve your relationship. These apps have developed some innovative ways of doing just that. Some of them connect you to a real therapist so that you can have the therapy experience in the comfort of your own home or on the go. Sometimes they have exercises to help you explain or express yourself when you just can’t find the right words, and help you improve your communication skills and relate more freely with your partner. Some of them even help you keep track of dates like your anniversaries or give you questionnaires to help you figure out what is wrong when things just don’t feel right. They can help you dive into subjects and situations that you might never explore otherwise and help both yourself and your partner develop into kinder, more considerate human beings.

Ultimately, the responsibility of nurturing your relationship comes down to you. But apps are making it easier and easier to access the help you need, and can be a profoundly effective tool in creating and maintaining the kind of life you want to live.

Article by Stacey Lebowitz-Levy