It is no secret that we have entered a mental health epidemic. The number of people diagnosed and treated has risen substantially over the past few decades. Join me as I walk through the process it took to build a mental health app for people who are suicidal and test it at the University of Michigan’s Depression Center.
Mental health does not discriminate. Suicide is the second highest cause of death for preteens, teens, and college students. The highest group statistically is older caucasian males. The targeted app audience spanned across a very broad range of ages and technical abilities.
Another challenging aspect was working with the knowledge that many times those who are suicidal are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. They can be in spaces where they don’t want to ask for help. Poor UX meant that there was more at stake than just unfound fun features.
Session Takeaways
The grandmother on her iPad, the businessman on his Android, the toddler on a desktop. They all need help navigating your media, and I am their superhero.
I breathe creativity. I speak boldly. I love furiously, and empathize wholeheartedly. I advocate for women in tech, orphans, and a better world. I fight for truth.
