Background

There's a steady rise in mental health issues in Nigeria today. The rapid increase in depression and sometimes suicide reports are an attestation to this. Nigerians generally believe that life is hard economically, career-wise, and socially. Many students with academic issues also suffer in silence and with no access to professional help. Employees and entrepreneurs bulk under the pressures of deadlines and the struggle to stay afloat. Young adults in relationships are an emotional mess with no hope of repairing and improving friendships and relationships. Socially, some people have become recluse and lonely, as they find it difficult to access circles or make new acquaintances.

The Problem

All the above-stated issues directly or indirectly have effects on people's mental health. One of the main issues with providing Mental Health solutions in the country is the reluctance of individuals to open up to others about their problems. Collectively, Nigeria as a society is still coming to the realization that part of the healing process involves speaking up.

The Task

In light of the challenges regarding the mental health of Nigerians, I decided to design a digital product that could help them manage their mental health to a great extent.

Research

The research methods employed included user interviews and an online survey. The goal of the research was to understand people’s awareness of their mental health, identify the challenges faced in maintaining their health, and find out if they will be willing to use a product to help them manage their mental health.

For this assessment, I conducted an online survey to ensure my design decisions were targeting the right people. Some of the questions asked included:

• Have you heard about mental health before now?
• Overall, how would you rate your mental health?
• How often has your mental health interfered with your personal relationship?
• How often has your mental health interfered with your ability to get work done or accomplish tasks?
• Do you sometimes worry too much that it affects your day-to-day life?
• Do you sometimes feel like you need someone to talk to but are scared of being judged?
• If there is a product that provides anonymous therapy would you be willing to use it?
• Have you used any product like this before?
• If yes what did you like about the product?
• What did you wish was better with the product?