Sometimes you just need to vent. And, while your partner, best mate and siblings are all good listeners, it can be helpful to have an objective person on the other end of the phone as you replay the details of your day.
There are a number of crisis support helplines in Australia, but where do you turn when you just need some advice, which might not be appropriate for a crisis hotline? Enter the Hapi app! Bustle describes Hapi as “a judgment-free sounding board that lets you freely work through your problems, serving as a sort of mood-boosting phone chat”. The goal of the app is to make you, the user, feel less stressed when you hang up the phone.
“Sometimes you feel alone and you want someone to talk to. So we thought, why don’t we develop a product that allows you to connect with a caring stranger?” Hapi co-founder Yvonne Lin told Bustle.
The service, which is on-demand and available 24/7, connects you with a real human over an internet call and allows you to discuss any pent-up feelings or distressing situations you may be experiencing.
You simply open the app and select a topic you want to talk about. Then, write a few sentences to give the listener some context and the app will pair you with someone who is the best match for the topic you requested.
According to the Hapi website, all of the listeners are vetted and trained individuals who you can rate after each call, so you know you’re getting the best quality of service. Many listeners have previously volunteered at other crisis helplines or are psychology students studying mental health. And, because you’re connected via the app, it’s 100% anonymous.
Unlike government-funded helplines, Hapi does charge you to use the service which costs USD$18 per hour (roughly $0.30 per minute) but if you’re a first time user, you can try the service out for 30 minutes free of charge.
As of right now, the app is only available in North America so for those in Australia, you’ll have to wait a little longer to access this service. But, head to the Hapi website and let the team know of your interest.
If you or anyone you know is struggling and needs support, call Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800 or Lifeline on 13 11 14, both of which provide trained counsellors you can talk with 24/7. You can also speak with someone confidentially at Headspace by calling 1800 650 890 or chat online here.