Happy Faces [for Android]

• TRAIN YOUR BRAIN TO FOCUS ON POSITIVE INFORMATION
Cognitive Bias Modification (CBM) is a computer-based therapy that gets the user to repeatedly select positive information over negative information. The aim of the game is to tap the positive image as quickly as possible. In this way, bias modification helps train your brain to automatically focus more on positive information in your everyday life.The result: less stress and a happier you.

• ADD YOUR OWN IMAGES
Happy Faces is the only cognitive bias modification (CBM) app that allows you to add your own images to the CBM program. Add pictures of things you are grateful for, happy events and people that are special to you and give them a positive charge. These will help to trigger the release of ‘feel-good’ chemicals during each training session.

• DOES COGNITIVE BIAS MODIFICATION WORK?
The majority of studies on CBM have been in relation to its efficacy in reducing and controlling anxiety. In 2009, the Journal of Abnormal Psychology reported on a study in which 72% of the volunteers were cured of Social Anxiety Disorder after just 2 hours CBM therapy, and in 2010 there were 12 studies which all concluded that Cognitive Bias Modification can be an effective treatment for anxiety.

A number of studies have shown that CBM can also help to alleviate depression. One Oxford University study showed that just 7 days of CBM training improved the mood of depressed volunteers, and in another study, after several weeks of CBM, participants showed increased activity in the lateral prefrontal cortex – the area of the brain associated with more positive, happier thinking.