Briefing – In the student project, we designed and conceptualized the product with a strong future-oriented perspective. We critically analyzed technical innovations and developed a meaningful application with virtual reality through research.
Role – I played a central role in the implementation of the ideas and accumulated knowledge. My main tasks included the design of wireframes and final screens, as well as the development of the design system.
In today's society, many people suffer from pathological anxiety that can affect their daily lives. The increasing prevalence of these anxiety disorders has led to an increased need for therapy. We have developed digital anxiety therapy to relieve the burden on therapists and support patients with phobias more effectively.
Digital anxiety therapy is a digital application that uses VR technology to provide targeted support for people with fears and phobias. The application is designed not only to enable effective confrontation therapy, but also to facilitate communication between patient and therapist.
Interviews
At the beginning of our project, we conducted in-depth interviews with people affected by various fears, such as spider phobia, fear of heights and claustrophobia. These interviews gave us a wide range of insights into symptoms, calming methods and the wishes of those affected. In the next step, we conducted several expert interviews with an alternative practitioner and osteopath, as well as a psychology student. We gathered insights into the origins of fears, how to resolve traumas and successfully treat phobias.
Therapy Process
After further extensive research, we visualized the course of therapy. As part of anxiety therapy with VR glasses, the patient confronts their anxiety directly. The next step is to overcome the anxiety by using techniques such as autogenic training or progressive muscle relaxation. The thoughts are then restructured, which leads to overcoming the fear. This process is repeated until the trauma has been successfully overcome.
Wireframes
Once we have defined the course of therapy, we look at how to implement it. We use the "Crazy 8" method to collect ideas on how we could visualize the content. We then convert these ideas into wireframes where we structure and visualize the content. The application offers the options of practicing and documenting therapy sessions and calming exercises. Furthermore, the app allows users to write diary entries and obtain a comprehensive overview of their therapy progress. Finally, we offer the option of reading articles by other sufferers and the integration of a smart watch to simplify and accompany the switch from VR to reality.
Design system
We created a design system for our final design of the app. The selected colors ensure that the app makes a serious and trustworthy impression. In order to make the app appear more personal, we created illustrations to support patients in the best possible way.
Final solution
As soon as the user puts on the VR headset, they are placed in a Blender model that allows them to move freely and look around. This interactivity allows patients to determine their personal comfort level and decide how much they are comfortable with. Our aim is to offer a variety of different 3D models that are individually tailored to the needs of each patient and selected together with the therapist at the start of therapy.
In addition, the VR glasses are equipped with an innovative heart rate measurement function to precisely track the course of therapy. As soon as the rate is too high, a predetermined calming method is displayed to help patients calm down in a confrontational situation.
let's connect
If you are interested in working with me or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to hearing from you!
