On a scale of 1 to 10, how helpful are self-monitoring tools for mental health?

Description

Self-monitoring tools are becoming a part of our daily lives.  While those for COVID-19 prompt us to consider our physical health, the less familiar territory of mental health tools helps people tune into and track their moods, behaviors and other symptoms.  These include pen-and-paper tools, from journaling about what you did and how you felt that day, to coloring in hand-drawn charts.  They also include smartphone apps and other digital tools where you can input observations about your mental health, such as rating your mood on a scale of one to 10.

At a time when many people are looking to take stock of their mental health, a natural question arises: Should these tools be used without the guidance of a mental health professional?