The aim of this project was to create a physical print that is both informational and fun to help college students who are struggling with their mental health. Having something physical is a nice break from the constant screens. It also makes the information easily accessible and minimizes the amount of searching for information for the student.
Literary Research
There are numerous reasons why college students don’t utilize the mental health services available to them on campus.
Stigma around the topic still exists, whether it be real or perceived there are harmful consequences of certain stigmas.
Students struggling with their mental health can have declining performances in classes, which only worsens the problem.
Topic Research
Design Research
Zines are a powerful way to engage readers and give value to voices and share information.
Giving students a space to reflect on their mental health can help to stop stigma of the topic and promote support.
Seeing peers relating to feeling depressed or anxious already helps them feel less alone.
Expert Interviews
Nicole Buitrago, Psy. D.
Making a point to find help for mental health could be daunting and overwhelming for some students, it would be beneficial to have that information readily available.
SFSU CAPS COUNSELOR FACILITY
“Many students express how they were taught to never discuss personal matters outside of the home or even that mental health issues aren’t real.”
Nicole Buitrago
SFSU ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Saskia van Kampen
Looking through the zine itself contributes to the experience beyond the content that is inside. Keeping this in mind could help improve the user experience.
“Mental health is a complex and confusing thing, so you could consider making the experience reflect those feelings.”
Saskia van Kampen
Design Analysis
Incorporating quotes, stories, art, or something else from others can help show students they’re not alone.
Including QR codes that can bring students directly to the source if they want more information.
Interactive elements for the user can keep their interest so they continue looking through the product.
User Research
An online survey with a series of eight questions was sent to 15 participants currently attending college.
Everyone said they’ve struggled with their mental health, but most said they don’t know much or anything about the mental health services available to them on campus.
Although many people answered they know someone struggling with their mental health and over half openly discuss it with others, a majority still said they feel alone in their struggle.
Respondents expressed they believe there should be more education and understanding around mental health.
TOP STRESSORS FOR ANXIETY OR DEPRESSION IN COLLEGE STUDENTS
RESPONDENTS HAVE STRUGGLED WITH THEIR MENTAL HEALTH
“Mental health is a very important topic that needs to be discussed, especially people who are struggling on their own. It is important for them to have the resources to feel comfortable speaking with someone who they can trust the most. Trust and comfortability is essential.”
— Anonymous Participant
Prototyping
Above Images - Iteration One: structure testing and some content.
Above Images - Iteration Two: adjusted size and interactions, added some more content.
Above Images - Iteration Three: design changes and finalized content.
