How to maintain mental health in turbulent times: Can mobile applications be a part of the solution?

The end of 2019 and the whole of 2020 were marked by the rapid spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. Harsh epidemiological measures began to be applied, which led to the restriction of social contacts, and everything began to be done remotely or online. All these measures have led to the appearance of anxiety and depressive symptoms in some people. The pandemic has changed our way of life and is considered a global stressor. In 2020, Croatia was also hit by two strong devastating earthquakes, leading to anxiety and depressive symptoms in individuals, but sometimes also to PTSD in those who have suffered more severe consequences. Nowadays, almost everyone uses smartphone and many mobile applications are available (especially if they are free) that are used to improve mental health. The aim of this paper was to review the literature on mobile applications that have been used so far to improve mental health and to describe some of the advantages and disadvantages of them. The role of mental health professionals in the development of mental health mobile applications is highlighted, as well as the possibility of availability of mental health professionals in the daily use of such mobile applications (in the form of coaching). Finally, it can be concluded that a number of mobile applications are being developed that could be useful, both in acute stress and in chronic coping with anxiety and stress.