Clinical review
Reviewer: Kris Garstang, Clinical Psychologist, Life Mind Psychology
Date of review: April 2022
Version: 3.4.2
Platform: Android
Comments: Like the other apps in the suite of Veterans Affairs self help apps, this is an excellent, evidence-based app for those wanting to learn about and manage the symptoms of PTSD. The numerous tools offered are all effective strategies for managing distress and there are enough of them for people to find ones that they like and are helpful for them. I really liked that it can be useful at the time someone is experiencing symptoms, with tool suggestions provided based on the symptom the person is finding difficult. It is good also to see the Safety Plan added in a recent update and I think many people with PTSD will find this helpful despite the US contacts provided. I would have no hesitation in recommending this app to my clients with PTSD.
NZ relevance: Relevant to a New Zealand audience, but see safety concern below.
Safety concerns: This app has a lot of good content for managing risks to self that are not available to non-US citizens. Users will need to populate the app with their own list of emergency contacts using the Safety Plan if they would like it to manage crisis situations. Audios all have voice with US accents.
User review
Reviewer: Member of the public, Auckland, New Zealand, August 2021
Comments: This app gave me options to manage my PTSD from military deployments and Police work. I found I could relate to the app's content and there was a simplicity to it all - just need to have NZ based contacts loaded.
Clinical review
Reviewer: Dr Lily Shue, General Practitioner, Auckland
Date of review: November 2017
Comments: The app includes lots of information in 4 areas: learn, track, manage and support. It includes self-help tools for deep breathing, muscle relaxation and positive framing, and also has sounds and quotes. However the app crashed my phone and users have to first agree to a wordy terms and conditions section. The app does haven't many pictures. There are related apps: PTSD Coach Australia and PTSD Families.
Safety concerns: None.
New Zealand relevance: Crisis resources and professional help in support section are American.
