What if you could have an honest, private conversation with someone who always had time for you?
It’s called Calmback.
And no, it’s not an expensive course or a slick app with hidden upsells. It’s a simple, free tool—powered by the latest version of ChatGPT-4—that I’ve carefully set up to help people feel a bit less alone.
Why I Created Calmback
Over the years, I’ve met so many people—clients, colleagues, friends—who told me the same thing:
“I don’t always have someone to talk to.”
“I can’t always afford therapy.”
“I wish I could just ask someone sensible a question at 3 am.”
I’ve also noticed how many mental health resources online feel either too clinical or too cheesy—like those old sketches or films where the therapist sits behind a big desk and simply tells you to “Stop it!”
(No offence to Bob Newhart—his Stop It! sketch is hilarious, but it’s not exactly real therapy. If you haven’t seen it, you can watch it here.)
Before I worked in mental health, my background was in IT. Over the years, I’ve seen a huge wave of AI tools and digital platforms emerge, helping people save time, work more efficiently, and even make more money.
So it felt like a natural progression to combine my experience in technology with my passion for wellbeing—to create something in an AI format that could genuinely help people in moments when they need it most.
I thought: What if I could build something that felt more like me?
Something friendly, grounded, and practical.
Something you can use whenever you need it, without worrying about the cost.
That’s why I built Calmback.
What Calmback Is (and Isn’t)
Calmback is a free GPT—a customised version of ChatGPT 4—that you can access any time, on any device.
It’s not a replacement for therapy, but it is a place to:
- Get clear, supportive advice
- Talk things through without judgement
- Explore ideas and feelings.
- Feel like you’re talking to a real person who cares.
When I set it up, I spent hours programming it to respond as it should (and shouldn’t). For example:
- I didn’t want it to sound like a scripted counsellor in a film.
- I did want it to feel like a wise parent or a trusted mentor.
- I didn’t want it to give vague affirmations.
- I wanted to offer practical suggestions that you can actually use.
A Few Things to Know
It uses ChatGPT 4, not version 3.
This matters because 4 is much more accurate, nuanced, and better at understanding context.
It’s completely free.
Anyone can use it. Whether you’re a client, a friend, or just someone curious, it’s there for you.
It’s private.
There’s no signup, no catch, and no pressure. Just a space you can use whenever you need it.
How to Use Calmback
It’s simple:
- Click here to open Calmback.
- Start typing as if you’re talking to me.
- Ask anything you like—big or small.
No pressure. No judgement. Just a safe space to explore what’s on your mind.
Click here to try Calmback
The First Time I Shared It
I first shared Calmback in a WhatsApp group with some members of The Growth Community networking group in Barnsley.
One of the members actually turned up late to the meeting because they were so engrossed in using it. That told me everything I needed to know—it works.
An Invitation to Try It
So next time you wake up at silly o’clock and find yourself doom-scrolling, remember—Calmback is there. It’s got your back.
If you’ve ever wished you could talk to someone at 3am, or you just need a sounding board for your thoughts, I’d invite you to give Calmback a try.
Use it exactly as you would if you were having a conversation with someone you trust. Ask your questions, share what’s on your mind, and see what comes back.
I hope you’ll be pleasantly surprised—and feel just a little lighter, calmer, and more supported whenever you need it.
A Note on Support
Calmback isn’t a replacement for therapy, counselling, or medical advice.
If you’re in crisis, or you’re worried about your mental health—or someone else’s—please don’t wait to reach out for help.
You can:
- Call Samaritans free on 116 123 any time, day or night
- Text SHOUT to 85258 for confidential support
- Speak to your GP or healthcare professional.
- Visit hubofhope.co.uk to see what local support is available near you.
You deserve real help and real support. Calmback is just one resource you can use alongside professional care—not instead of it.
P.S.
In a world full of noise, hype, and instant fixes, Calmback is here to remind you that it’s okay to be human. No pressure. No pretence. Just a place to breathe, reflect, and feel a little more like yourself again.
Mike Lawrence: Your Guide to Health & Wellbeing
I’m Mike Lawrence, a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing. After overcoming significant health challenges, including brain surgery, I’ve dedicated myself to a journey of self-improvement and helping others thrive. From heart-pounding skydives for charity to soul-enriching travels in Thailand, my experiences have shaped my approach to holistic health.
I love sharing the lessons I’ve learned from these adventures and the powerful audiobooks I devour. Let’s explore the paths to better mental and physical health together. Embrace life’s adventures with enthusiasm and resilience, and remember—you’re never alone on this journey!
Feel free to email me at hello@mikelawrence.co.uk or connect with me on LinkedIn. For more in-depth insights and inspiring stories, read my latest blogs here. Together, let’s create a healthier, happier future!
