New Apps Feature Mental Health Support for Students
College can be stressful even under normal circumstances. Add to the mix a global pandemic, cries for social justice and the fallout of a heated election? It’s no surprise that students are feeling emotional strain, fear and anxiety.
The University of Oregon has partnered with two new apps to provide students with easily accessible services that can help improve their mental health, encourage interaction with others and build resilience.
WellTrack
Self-guided and interactive tools for managing mental well-being
A free resource for all UO students, WellTrack is a self-guided and interactive app that enables users to track their moods, feelings and thoughts while providing coping mechanisms to mitigate intense stress and maintain mental wellness through all of their life events.

Users typically begin with WellTrack’s well-being assessment, which they can revisit as needed. The app contains a suite of other tools, including mood tracking, mindfulness and relaxation recordings, breathing exercises and short educational videos.
“The MoodCheck and Thought Diary tools are especially helpful,” Lin said. “Tracking moods throughout the day helps a student better understand their own mental health. In addition, documenting one’s thoughts can point out cognitive distortions—unhealthful thinking styles that students often engage in. WellTrack suggests ways to reframe these negative perceptions.”
At a time when so many people are tied to their phones, Lin noted that WellTrack’s emphasis on self-care doesn’t ignore social interaction. Scheduler and tracker components suggest helpful activities to do with others, after which the user can reflect on how the activities made them feel.
“While students will log in using their Duck ID, the app is secure and confidential,” said Alisia Caban, PhD, associate director and clinical director at University Counseling Services. “A student receiving treatment from Counseling Services can choose to grant permission for their therapist to track their progress, but that is optional and up to the student.”
“In addition, WellTrack is tailored for our campus and offers students a list of resources specific to our university and local community, so students know where to go and who to contact should they have concerns related to finances, academics, or other issues,” Caban said.
