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iSoothe

Project Overview

UI App Design

iSoothe is a mobile application designed during the GDI 2022 Hackathon to provide real-time support for individuals experiencing panic attacks. The app guides users through the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding technique, offering a simple and calming interface to support users during high-stress moments.

Project Details

Project Type: Hackathon – App Design

Role: UI Designer & UX Researcher

Tools Used: Figma, Adobe Illustrator, Competitive Analysis, User Research

Timeline: 72 Hours

Team: 6 Members (Developers, Designers, Researchers)

Problem Statement

Individuals experiencing panic attacks often struggle to remember and implement techniques that can help manage their symptoms. Existing meditation or anxiety relief apps lack specific guidance for panic situations, creating a need for a solution that provides real-time assistance using proven methods.

Goals

  • Create a simple, calming app that guides users step-by-step through the 5-4-3-2-1 grounding method during a panic attack
  • Provide real-time guidance to assist users in practicing the grounding technique
  • Design a soothing interface to reduce anxiety and provide a supportive environment
  • Ensure accessibility and ease of use, even for individuals in a state of heightened anxiety

Target Audience

  • Age: 18-70
  • Tech Skills: Comfortable with smartphone apps, but needing something straightforward during stressful situations
  • Demographic: Individuals experiencing anxiety, mental health advocates, people seeking non-pharmaceutical solutions for panic attacks

User Research

Given the limited timeframe of the hackathon, we conducted quick research on panic attacks and available tools, including competitor analysis of existing anxiety relief apps. Key insights included:

  • Many existing apps focused broadly on meditation but lacked tools specifically designed for panic attacks
  • Users in the midst of a panic attack may struggle to remember and execute techniques, emphasizing the need for clear, guided support
  • A calming visual experience was crucial to avoid overwhelming users further during moments of anxiety

Personas

Emily, 26 years old: A busy professional who experiences occasional panic attacks and needs a simple, guided tool to regain control during stressful moments.

John, 40 years old: A father of two who struggles with anxiety and prefers non-pharmaceutical tools to manage his symptoms. John looks for intuitive and supportive solutions.

Design Process

1. Defining the Flow and Features

  • Designed a straightforward user flow:
    1. Open App: Users greeted with a calming screen and prompted to start the grounding technique
    2. Step-by-Step Guidance: Walk users through identifying things they can see, touch, hear, smell, and taste
    3. Follow-Up Options: Prompt users to indicate if they need to repeat steps or feel calmer

2. Visual and Interaction Design

  • Created a soothing interface with:
    • Custom calming background images featuring soft gradients and natural motifs
    • Cool, welcoming color palette (blues, purples, soft pinks) to promote relaxation
    • Clear typography and large buttons for easy interaction during anxiety

3. Prototype Development

  • Developed a Figma prototype with key features:
    • Guided prompts with calming imagery for each grounding step
    • Required input for each step to ensure full engagement
    • Follow-up questions to provide continuity and support

4. Usability Testing and Feedback

  • Conducted quick usability tests among team members and available participants
  • Gathered feedback on flow, simplicity, and the calming effect of the design

Key Features

  • Guided 5-4-3-2-1 Technique: Step-by-step guidance through the grounding method
  • Calming Visuals: Custom background images and soothing color palette
  • Interactive Input: Users required to input responses for each grounding step
  • Follow-Up Support: Post-exercise check-in to assess user state and offer continued support
  • Simplified Interface: Large, clear buttons and minimal distractions for ease of use during anxiety

Outcome and Learnings

iSoothe won first place in the GDI Hackathon, receiving praise for its thoughtful approach to solving a real-life problem:

  • Challenges: Working within a 72-hour timeframe required prioritizing features and maintaining a clear focus on core functionality.
  • Successes: The emphasis on empathy and simplicity was key to creating an impactful experience for users, as evidenced by positive feedback from hackathon participants.

Next Steps

  • Conduct a heuristic evaluation to refine language and separate additional calming features
  • Implement user testing and iteration for a more polished product
  • Explore integrations with wearable devices for proactive panic attack detection

Conclusion

iSoothe demonstrates the power of user-centered design in creating impactful solutions for mental health support. By providing a simple, guided approach to managing panic attacks, the app showcases how technology can be leveraged to make a real difference in users’ lives, even within the constraints of a hackathon environment.

Empathetic UX Designer | Crafting Inclusive Digital Experiences That Drive Meaningful Impact

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