AntiAnxiety

Great Bytes Software

About this app

This app uses cognitive-bias modification (CBM) to train you to ignore negative stimuli that would otherwise cause you stress in social situations. The app is based on research by the McNally Laboratory at Harvard University.


CBM's approach is to change harmful thought patterns. Every individual perceives reality differently (e.g. glass half full vs. half empty), which is referred to as "interpretation bias". People suffering from anxiety are prone to interpret uncertain situations more negatively. The app's goal is to train you to focus your attention more on positive rather than negative meaning.


Studies have used CBM as a potential therapy for social anxiety, with positive first results: "After just eight 15-minute sessions - a mere two hours of active treatment - 72 percent of patients in the treatment group no longer met diagnostic criteria for social anxiety disorder, compared with 11 percent of patients in the control group. Even more startling, the diagnostic differences were still evident at a follow-up exam four months later." (Weir, 2011, http://bit.ly/1nWGKN3)


By using the app three times a day for just 2 minutes, you may be able to decrease your social anxiety. If you aren't happy with the app's results after a 4-week period, we will provide you with a full refund - no questions asked!


For more information on how the app works, please see the following links:
http://www.apa.org/monitor/2011/11/behavior-change.aspx
http://www.thecrimson.com/article/2012/3/23/phone-app-ease-anxiety/
http://www.economist.com/node/18276234


Please note: This app has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The app is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you suffer from social anxiety, please see your primary healthcare provider. The app is in no way affiliated with or endorsed by Harvard University or the McNally Laboratory. By downloading and using the app, you agree to our terms and conditions: http://www.greatbytes.org/dl/TC.pdf

Ratings and reviews

Instructions could be clearer (which seems odd, because they're rather simple anyway). Is it necessary to stare at the middle of the screen (where the * pops up) the entire time?

Had a bit of trouble figuring out what I should do, but one I figured out that I don't have to stare at where the * is when it's not there, I was was fine.

Progress reports and additional pictures would be good