The Red Cross has developed the My Team phone app backed by research from Beyond Blue, the Black Dog Institute, Lifeline and hundreds of people who have dealt with mental health problems.

Tamworth Red Cross supervisor Stephen Riley works in juvenile justice when he isn't at the op shop.

"I work with a number of criminal youth and hear about their mental health concerns due to alcohol and drug abuse and a number of other reasons," he said.

"I typically refer them for clinical help but I feel this will be really beneficial for young people experiencing these concerns."

Users can add family, friends and support networks to their 'team' on the app, every day they can log their mood and engage with clinical professionals in the mental health space.

Red Cross teamed up with more than 250 people who had experienced mental illness to find out what exactly their needs were.

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It's pegged to have even greater benefits for people in rural and regional Australia who don't have the same access to support services and clinical help.

In his experience, it can be hard for people with mental illness to come forward and talk about it, that's what makes the unique design of the phone app so special, Mr Riley said.

"The possibility of saving lives is really there," he said.

"It will definitely help people who are more comfortable trying to deal with their issues at a more personal level, if the levels of anxiety do not decrease ultimately people should seek professional clinical support."

The app is available on the Red Cross website and through the app store.

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