moodgym
An interactive online programme that teaches cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) skills for preventing and managing symptoms of depression and anxiety, first developed at the Australian National University. It has five modules plus a workbook. It was free for many years; individual access now costs AUD 39 for 12 months, unless an organisation gives you a token.
2001
moodgym.com.au · Oct 2026
Course
Career Growth
e-hub Health (Australian National University spin-off)
Five modules, self-paced
All
AUD 39 a year, free via some organisations
What it is
moodgym is one of the most studied online self-help programmes for depression and anxiety. Professors Helen Christensen and Kathy Griffiths at the Australian National University wrote the original content in 2001, and it has been tested in many research trials since. It is now developed and run by e-hub Health, a spin-off from ANU.
What you get
- Five modules, done in order, teaching CBT skills: how thoughts, feelings and actions connect, how to spot and challenge unhelpful thinking, and how to handle stress and relationships.
- A workbook of quizzes and diaries that tracks your progress.
- Interactive characters whose situations make the ideas concrete.
Price
moodgym used to be free to everyone. Its site now says individual access to the new version is charged: AUD 39 for 12 months (plus local taxes, shown in your currency). If your university, employer or health service gives you a token, you can use it instead of paying.
Who it suits
The programme says it is suitable for people aged 16 and over who want to prevent problems or manage symptoms that are troubling but not incapacitating. It is not designed for clinical levels of depression or anxiety, and it is not for crisis help. If you are there, see a doctor or counsellor, and if you are in danger, contact local emergency services or use Find A Helpline.
How to use it well
- One module a week, with the workbook exercises done properly.
- Keep the thought diary going between modules; that is where the change happens.
- Ask your university counselling service whether they have tokens before you pay.
- If you cannot pay, the free NHS Every Mind Matters and WHO stress guide cover similar ground.
Pair it with on Sefism
- The Looking after your mental health roadmap covers low mood, anxiety and when to get professional help.
- The thinking skills help with negative self-talk in Building real confidence.
- Ask Tauseef a question if you want advice on your own situation.
Best for: a structured, research-backed CBT programme for mild to moderate low mood and anxiety.
Ready to start?
Opens on e-hub Health (Australian National University spin-off) in a new tab.
Stuck on something specific?
Writing only gets you so far. If you want an answer to your situation rather than the general case, book a session and we will work through it together. Sessions are free for approved Sefism members, and a few slots open each week.
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