10 Way To Use Your Smartphone To Improve Your Mental Health

If you deal with any kind of mental health issues - especially depression and anxiety, - excessive phone usage is not helping you, generally speaking.
But there are ways to use your phone to actually benefit your mental health. These 10 tools can help you establish more control of your life and improve your wellbeing.
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0:00 Budgeting & Sleep Tracking Apps
4:17 Mood-Boosting Games Like MoodBloom
6:43 Online Support & Breathwork
8:58 Fitness, Nutrition & Productivity Tools
12:13 Audiobooks, Podcasts & Community Advice 12:13
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a replacement for receiving treatment. It is purely educational in nature. My relationship with you is that of presenter and audience, not therapist and client.
But I do care.

[@NarePoghosyan]

People keep telling me “You are strong”. I don’t want to be strong, I want to be happy.

[@PrisonBecky]

I totally understand. Just because we can carry it, doesn’t mean it isn’t heavy.

[@hwahwa2008]

I know how you feel. Sometimes it sounds like another form of emotional blackmail, like you have to be what they expect and describe you to be.

[@NorahsYarnArt]

I’ve read somewhere that “we’re not here to be happy; we’re here on a mission “ and somehow it helped immensely. Also, another thing that helped me was knowing whether or not “being happy” actually meant being able to feel something, anything.

[@beautifulblackbeauty8641]

Just started Mood Bloom. Wish me luck!😂

[@Quiet.Katie.]

I'm always thankful for new tools to try, including smartphone apps. Thank you for providing this list as I don't see videos like this very often from professionals. There are clearly differing opinions here, and I can't stand conflict, but honestly, the negativity in the comments is super subjective, and in some instances, not even necessary to post. If it isn't kind or constructive it doesn't need to be said.

[@catalhuyuk7]

As my father used to say, if you don’t have anything good to say, don’t say anything. But what better way to learn from each other? I always told my kids, say what you need to but be respectful.

[@janicerennie422]

I listen to music for specific activities- meditation or exercise or house cleaning

[@THEMANWITHTHEYELLOWHAT.]

Same here, not as much as I used to, but it helped me get through some rough times. I do use it for sleeping though because I live with family

[@jenneystull750]

I haven't read through all of the comments yet, but to add on to your audio book recommendation: there are free audiobooks, mp3s, even books on cd/tape online through our local and national public library systems. Also, my dearest friend and I communicate via the voice record option in our text messaging app multiple times a day. That way we can hear each other's voices and get as close to a "real" conversation while still attending to our busy schedules.

[@georgehart9183]

Glad I found you. Been looking for advice and your the man. Thanks for taking your time to help.

[@dragonwithagirltattoo598]

14.99 a month for mood bloom. I can’t afford another app.

[@dinrufarore]

The subscription isn't mandatory as far as I can tell

[@howdoyouknowthat]

Edit - I see its free for a preview, pay to really use it. I do prefer to pay directly rather than with my data or ads, but @drscotteilers could you possibly get them to offer a code to your viewers to get two weeks free to trial? Then folks could get a chance to see if they sustain the activity before paying.

[@isabellegelinas3306]

Meditation apps literally saved my life! I can no longer forget to meditate with the notifications and I love being directed while doing it, helps me focus. Every time, I choose a subject (self-confidence, mindfulness, even pain management) and voilà!

[@DrScottEilers]

Wow how did I forget about these? Great suggestion!

[@howdoyouknowthat]

@isabellegelinas3306 can you share some of your favorites?

[@TheKindArtist]

Thank you for this video and for taking your time to give advice to your audience. This video is very helpful, and it's amazing. Thank you for everything, and I hope everyone had a good day today.

[@DrScottEilers]

Glad it was helpful!

[@TheKindArtist]

@@DrScottEilers Of course!! You're the best, I hope you have a wonderful day today sir

[@user-zk5rt3gb3e]

Thank you for this. Very useful ideas.

[@sallyr.6891]

Another timely topic! Thanks for your tips. I will try a breathing app. I am so grateful for all the online resources, including your channel. I am trying to only check in with the news 1x day now and instead tune into info that supports me. One way I use my phone is I save screenshots of affirmations and inspirational quotes I found through channels I subscribe, i.e. Motivational Doc. These help me keep focused throughout the day.

[@sonyas.1124]

Thank you for info.

[@GingerBiPolarBear]

Thanks for always providing good and practical advice, but I think I'll skip all of these. (Will still watch your channel, lol). I work with data all day at work and I really don't enjoy it. By the time I'm done I want to avoid all devices. I wish I could do all those things without a phone, ideally without a computer or TV as well. I miss pens and paper and making things pretty. Unfortunately I also struggle with social anxiety so I don't go out much. I feel so out of place in the technology obsessed world.

[@hannahmitchell87]

I dunno if this is up your street but have you tried adult colouring books? They can be quite calming & you get to make things look pretty without the stress & overthinking that a blank page/ canvas can cause. I went all out with rainbow paints & metallic pens on a quote which my Mum ended up framing, bless her 💜

[@DrScottEilers]

That makes sense. Balance is really important.

[@mtnshelby7059]

I dunno. I would recommend its use as a tool...free audiobooks via the Libby app, life daving emergency weather notifications, free map navigation apps, music, podcasts, etc. These would be in my Smartphone mental health bucket. It's the reason I still have a basic smartphone.

[@francine6485]

Dr what do you of Dr Burns book 'Feeling Good' BTY I did read your book which I enjoyed it was helpful.

[@suchismitakar2154]

you can use forrest, habitica and flip clock

[@DrScottEilers]

Thank you! These are great suggestions

[@howdoyouknowthat]

I love the look of Forest and Habitica! Thank you. Which Flip Clock are you looking at? I see lots of results. Do you just mean any count down timer widget?

[@suchismitakar2154]

​​@@howdoyouknowthat yes...the type which fills up your smartphone and laptop screen completely and it Stays ON. Until you switch off the app.

[@evan_elric]

​@@howdoyouknowthat habitica actually has some p terrible business practices. I joined in.... 2014? and they not too long ago (within the last few years) unilaterally fired and silenced their entire *volunteer* moderation team and absolutely gutted the social features because they don't have anyone to moderate it anymore. they really treated the people who had been the backbone of the experience so poorly I can't in good conscience let people join up without that knowledge.

[@reneereif2059]

Don't know if this counts, but i text with several people who are also on recovery, just checking in with each other. Impromptu support between us.

[@mrs.antihero]

One of the top ways I use my phone to improve my mental health is to watch videos like yours and some other similarly knowledgeable, educational, compassionate and supportive mental health professionals and communities, and when I can, taking advantage of the linked resources they provide. I also use my clock and calendar to set reminders for myself, I use my notes app to journal, and I sometimes listen to music or use my relaxation/ sleep sounds app. I am interested in trying the game you suggested, and reading/ listening to your book. Though, I'm not one who can listen and do other things at the same time. I have to give it my full attention or none of it sinks in. Thanks, working memory and executive function deficit. 😏

[@joansikorski9591]

How about a mindfulness app

[@adamscaife6931]

Please could you talk about what to do if you're suffering from PSSD?

[@MikeBlack-pv8dy]

I deal with stomach problems like bloating from anxiety not sure how too get this too stop and pain

[@reneereif2059]

Love podcasts and audio books

[@exercisethoughtsanddiscussions]

As a former Personal Trainer, a Meal Planner was the MOST effective tool to help people lose body fat. 👍👍👍

[@user-vy6xw5lb5l]

I found you using my smartphone. And I love music especially Christian music. Forget social media. Some apps are OK.

[@DrScottEilers]

Exactly!

[@user-vy6xw5lb5l]

@@DrScottEilers You really did save Me. I am 67 I have changed my whole lifestyle.. Thank You really is not enough said..

[@jenneystull750]

Oh, and music. Always music!!! 😊

[@junegagnon6506]

Nobody says you have to use a smartphone. These are just tips for people who are okay with smartphones. But there is no need for the foul language. Some people just can't handle or haven't learned how to manage a smartphone. If a person is feeling misery in life it doesn't matter what it is its easy to take it out on others or the suggestions being offered. And that's all it is just suggestions. I have found simple apps like the dots apps help my memory and executive functioning work better which helps greatly with thinking. You just have to not spend all day on the app. If getting outside for walks or taking a dancing class or doing some art is your thing then di it? Focus on the positive and look outside the box. Develope a different mindset...that probably will help the most...😀

[@avivashore3769]

Multitasking?

[@karengirvan759]

BrainHQ and insight timer for meditation

[@jayanti-yv1jd]

Sorry, Doc, '' When it comes to reducing stress through your smartphone, I'd highly recommend listening to music that you love. Opt for uplifting and energetic tunes, as they have a powerful impact on our emotions and can help lift our mood. Avoid sad or melancholic music, as it might worsen negative feelings. If someone is hesitant to exercise, I'd suggest encouraging them to dance instead. Dancing is not only a great form of physical activity but also a fantastic way to release tension and boost endorphins. Plus, dancing with others can make it even more effective, as shared experiences often amplify positive effects."

[@sharonb519]

#1 Stay the hell off of Facebook.

[@lenas5613]

Anxiety is coming up here. Period.

[@xPsychotic1]

I've been following you for months, and I appreciate your work and content. But I have to say I do not appreciate this video. I tried mood bloom, and its shamelessly forces you to pay for it. Sending constant messages that read - ' remember the free version has no clinical benefits' As someone who does struggle with a very stressful time in my life, i wanted to try it, and it almost immediately made me feel worse. What if i can't pay for it? Mental health is not a place for such business practices.

[@murranz]

Et cetera

[@juliadixon8465]

Sure hope there is something for old crazy people

[@carmony13]

I'm just gonna stop reading comments. Some of you people here make my mood bad with your constant complaining about getting free help on a YT video. Grow up. Please. For the good of society grow up.

[@dennisobrien6361]

You can just stop, you don't have to announce it

[@hannahmitchell87]

I can't see many comments complaining? Maybe they've been deleted?

[@prismaticwellness3970]

Perfectly said. If you can’t pay for mood bloom, don’t buy it. It doesn’t need to make you feel bad -There are suggestions for free things, including hundreds of hours of content on this channel.!

[@KimGhidorah]

​@@prismaticwellness3970 And you don't even have to pay for Mood Bloom. I played it for multiple days entirely for free. Don't know where people are getting the idea that it has to be paid for 🤷

[@will4282]

With all due respect, a mobile game advertisement with anything even remotely resembling a claim of improving mental health does not sit right with me. Really disappointing.

[@dennisobrien6361]

yeah 100%. If it was going to be in here at all it should have been disclosed RIGHT at the start and presented as an advertisement.

[@OrganisedPauper]

@@dennisobrien6361It’s in the full description of the video.

[@mrs.antihero]

I'm not mad at it. It was just one out of 10 different suggestions that could be helpful. Not all of them are going to be useful, helpful or applicable to everyone and we can each take what's useful to us and leave what isn't. I haven't tried the app, so I don't know whether it would be helpful to me or not, and until I do, I reserve judgement. I also don't resent the sponsorship aspect of it because, as he said, he uses it himself, and I know he doesn't accept just any, but only what he believes in and approve of.

[@WatchMysh]

What you say is: game = bad. This isn't the case here though because moodbloom has evidence based positve effects on mental health. The sponsorship was also clearly mentioned. In my opinion it's a win win here. Scott Eilers gets paid for his work and moodbloom some exposure. It's a good example for positive sponsoring. There's so much bad and misleading sponsorship out there on KZbin. You're blaming the wrong person here.

[@DrScottEilers]

It's based on robust scientific principles, I wouldn't be interested in it otherwise. If you'd like to know more about the clinical trials here's the link! finance.yahoo.com/news/hedonia-novel-approach-finds-dramatic-150000856.html?

[@debbieporter6581]

Fuck smart phones. Being online has made my life so much worse

[@junegagnon6506]

See my comment above. You know what, I never wanted a smartphone either. I suffer from OCD, germ phobia and an array of physical health issues. I used to feel negative and miserable about everything. Then one day I realized even if I have all these problems and health difficulties life doesn't have to be all negative. So you know what I did? I started listening to the one that is responsible for my life on this beautiful planet by reading and studying his written word the Bible. I knew that if anyone has the answers to all the problems it would be him. And in doing so I have found out through my studies why we have so much problems and that there is also a promised hope of a better life for mankind soon to come if we are willing to live God's way and learn what that entails. Now I am not miserable anymore. I may not feel very well at times, but at least I know it is only temporary. So getting back to the smartphone and tools to help day to day living I have The Bible downloaded on my smartphone. Which really helps someone like myself who has OCD with germ phobia and I find physically handling books difficult. It works out well for me. And using WhatsApp and Facebook 0:03 helps me stay connected to family and friends because I am quite isolated. I have learned that it's all in the mindset how you view the things internal and external. The question you have to ask yourself is do I stay in the past, do nothing currently or do you move forward and find a solution to doing that?

[@hannahmitchell87]

Re the sponsor: "Evidence based science behind its claim that it can improve mental health" Could you elucidate please?

[@DrScottEilers]

Yes! Sorry for the late response, it was a super busy week. Here's a good summary of the literature: finance.yahoo.com/news/hedonia-novel-approach-finds-dramatic-150000856.html?

[@hannahmitchell87]

@@DrScottEilers Ooh lovely, thank you!

[@juliadixon8465]

Another thing, and one I have NEVER seen a pro address is that technophobia (in my case, it seems more like a LD that stealth exists inside the good old autism spectrum) absolutely exists. Had an EBT-issued smart phone once. Keep in mind I obtained an MFA before computers were necessary to enroll in and perform at college, so I was initially quite surprised to find the thing incomprehensible, which prompted me to try to return it. I don't necessarily believe that smart phones are the big baddie in the xtian bible, but I would agree that they have made the world worse, especially for the younger folks out there. Fck technology

[@juliadixon8465]

Really poor, often homeless folks like myself are financially prohibited from using the damnable things, so perhaps it's a good thing that I'm poor

[@ewmurphy]

Is this episode curated for the purpose of sponsorship? Sad.

[@janicerennie422]

Well, I appreciate the information

[@ewmurphy]

​@@janicerennie422Information thats common sensical and of self help is of no help from a PHD.

[@ewmurphy]

​​​@@janicerennie422Information that is common sensical and can be easily obtained via self help is information of no help and value from a PHD. Probably you see him as an influencer.

[@PrisonBecky]

How dare this person attempt to make money through sponsorship….. especially when it’s clearly stated🙄🙄🙄

[@ewmurphy]

​​​​@@janicerennie422Information that is common sensical and easily obtained via self help is of no help from a PHD. Probably u see him as an influencer and thats concerning. Anyone can be a KZbinr for a main or side gig but I see a doctor's overaching call is to help and save lives. Otherwise, its sheer hypocrisy.

[@Josgreg1102]

I disagree with you today Doctor. as a mental health patient without friends and family the smartphone or better said technology in general helped me to stay connected 24/7 and because smartphones is that i watched all your previous videos even if I disagree with your ideas or point of view. Better said from my point of view. You made from the smartphone your friend or your enemy.