Mental Health Website, Information Architecture
Project focuses on designing an inclusive online platform for managing anxiety, consolidating essential resources, self-help tools, and a self-assessment quiz. The platform emphasises accessibility, clear navigation, and outcome-driven design to guide users in understanding and addressing their mental health concerns.
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 organisation using a validated sitemap and categorized resources for diverse user groups.
Research
Analysed 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.
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 prioritised quick access to emergency contacts and self-assessment tools.
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.
