4 apps to help you manage stress

Sometimes you need a little help to relax and manage the stresses of the day. Here is our pick of the best apps that take the stresses and strains away. And, best of all, nearly all of them are free.

1. White Noise Lite
After a busy day in the office there's nothing worse than not being able to get to sleep. Being overtired starts the day on a stressful note.

To help you relax into your bedroom routine, try this white noise app. Ten looped sounds drown out distractions and help you get a satisfying slumber. Choose from air travel, the crash of waves on a beach or the sound of a thunderstorm. Sleep deprived parents will be pleased to hear it's also been known to calm crying babies.

Platform: iOS and Android
Cost: Free

2. Breathe2Relax
It might sound simple, but when you’re stressed it’s important to just take a breath. This portable stress management tool encourages you to learn a skill called diaphragmatic breathing. Wise up and help decrease the stress response in your body.

Platform: iOS and Android
Cost: Free

3. Nature Sounds Relax And Sleep
Living in urban environments, it’s hard to get back to nature and have the space to relax. If green space isn’t easily at hand then let nature come to you. Enjoy a range of nature-inspired sounds to lull you to sleep. Best of all you can do it in the comfort of the air con – without the risk of bug bites!

Platform: Android
Cost: Free

4. Talking Tom Cat
Laughter is the best antidote to stress, and you can’t get much funnier than a virtual cat. Some 190 million people have downloaded this on to their iPhone – so comedy cats must do the trick. Sometimes just having someone to talk to can help you relax. Responding to everything you say with a funny feline voice, this is one pet that you won’t want to leave at home.

Platform: iOS and Android
Cost: Free

If you don’t have a smartphone or tablet, don’t worry. Make sure your work life is stress-free with these five calming techniques you can use at work, or get this doctor’s expert opinion on how to effectively deal with stressful situations.