This project focuses on designing an inclusive online platform for managing anxiety, consolidating essential resources, self-help tools, and a self-assessment quiz. The platform emphasizes accessibility, clear navigation, and outcome-driven design to guide users in understanding and addressing their mental health concerns.

My Mind & Me

Developing an anxiety support platform with accessible and user-driven information architecture


Overview

Key Features:

  • Accessible Design: Clear navigation with global and local pathways to resources, emergency services, and therapy options.

  • Interactive Tools: Self-assessment quiz with actionable results for tailored guidance.

  • User-Friendly Structure: Simplified content organization using a validated sitemap and categorized resources for diverse user groups.

Research

Analyzed mental health platforms to identify user pain points:

  • Overwhelming information and poor navigation discourage users.

  • Demand for verified, sensitive content catering to specific demographics (e.g., students, children).

  • Insights highlighted the need for simplicity, authenticated resources (e.g., NHS), and clear terminology.

Findings:

  • A significant gap exists in linking users to actionable resources quickly.

  • Navigation flexibility and clear information hierarchy are critical for engagement.

Target Users: Individuals seeking mental health support, especially those affected by anxiety due to busy lifestyles or situational stress.


Design Process

Wireframes & Prototypes:
Created high-fidelity wireframes to visualize a user-centred information architecture, focusing on accessibility and ease of navigation.

Sitemap Validation:

  • Conducted open and closed card-sorting sessions with 12 participants.

  • Refined the global navigation (e.g., “Access to Help & Therapy”) and prioritized quick access to emergency contacts and self-assessment tools.

User Journeys:

  • Designed multiple pathways to access the self-assessment quiz, including:

    • Global search bar.

    • Navigation menu options (e.g., "Access to Help & Therapy").

    • Contextual links in related content (“About Anxiety” section).

  • Ensured outcome-driven navigation to guide users toward next steps based on quiz results.

Design Features:

  • Navigation Flexibility: Users can access tools and resources through various pathways to ensure inclusivity.

  • Outcome-Driven Feedback: After completing the self-assessment, users receive tailored next steps, such as accessing professional help or additional resources.

Outcomes

  • Improved Accessibility: Multiple navigation pathways to key features like the self-assessment quiz enhanced user satisfaction and resource discovery.

  • Clear User Guidance: Users were provided with actionable insights based on quiz results, improving their confidence in managing anxiety.

  • Validated Structure: Testing and feedback reinforced the platform’s usability and effectiveness.

Key Takeaways

  • Navigation Flexibility: Offering multiple pathways to key tools improves accessibility and reduces user frustration.

  • Outcome-Driven Design: Providing clear next steps elevates the user experience, ensuring users feel supported and empowered.