Small Steps SMS is a text messaging-based program designed to support people in learning and applying skills for managing mental health concerns. The design process involved working closely with people who are dealing with depression and anxiety to understand the challenges they are facing, the skills they are interested in learning, how they use their phones, and their ideas for how text messaging can help them take care of their mental health.
If you sign up for this program, you will receive text messages for up to 8 weeks to help you learn skills to address behaviors, thinking patterns, and other challenges. The messages you receive are all automated, meaning that you’re texting with a computer program, not a real person. The program isn’t designed to replace your relationships with people. It’s a tool to help you take care of your own mental health by trying out new strategies (like self-compassion, gratitude, and daily routines) to see what works for you.