My main objective for this project was to tackle a problem within my community. Mental health in youth is a problem that affects communities
on a regular basis. The problem I decided on was mental health and youth as I felt that it is an issue that is very common and yet not talked
about much.
Goal
Create a safe zone where college students can get help from a professional.
Process
Competitive Research
I looked through different services that helped people with mental health issues. The services I came across were mostly online
and provided 24/7 help for their users. The services could be covered by their insurance or out of pocket. The rates of each
service varied based on different packages the user could choose from.
Student opinions
I created a Google Jamboard and Reddit question to see things from the students' point of view. I asked them questions related to
where these services, that the colleges provide, could improve and how they could approach the problem. I discovered that most students
felt that colleges were not doing enough and that the counseling should expand their services.
Product Vision
- Help students with mental health problems
- Create a safe zone for students to talk about their problems
- Provide a service that is free of cost
Solution
Student Haven is an app that is available for college students, specifically those in the CUNY system. The app is for students who are in need of talking
to a professional about their mental health. The student will be able to set up appointments through the app. Help will be available 24/7 and free of cost.
Persona
Wireframes
The initial idea was to have students enter their school ID numbers to use the app. The app would include a journal so that users can input how
they are feeling, reminders, and notifications of recent messages
Updates
Onboarding
Onboarding screens were designed to get users familiarized with the product.
Removing Journal
After testing with users, the idea of including a journal was removed.
Final Results
SafeHaven main screen
ID input screen
SafeHaven onboarding screens
SafeHaven home screen that includes any new messages and people who are currently available to contact
Therapist bio screen that allows users to learn more about each therapist
Session that is being done via video call and text
Final Thoughts
The biggest constraint with this project was definitely time. With more time I would have further explored how to
implement a journal of sorts into the app. I would have also worked on the illustrations myself. Thanks to undraw.co
for the amazing free illustrations.
I think this project has real potential and could have a huge impact within
the college community. As someone who has experienced the college life, I know how stressful it can be.
A big thank you to the people who told me their stories from their point of view!
