Mental Health Support App for the Holidays

Day 7

CHALLENGE OVERVIEW:
In today's digitally connected world, mental health has become a paramount concern, especially during the holiday season, which can be a time of increased stress and anxiety for many. The "Mental Health Support App for the Holidays" engineering design challenge invites participants to leverage technology and empathy to create a solution that addresses this important issue. This challenge integrates the principles of engineering with the sensitivity required for mental health support, encouraging students to develop innovative applications that make a real difference.
CHALLENGE STATEMENT:
Design and develop a mobile application that provides mental health support and resources specifically tailored for the holiday season. Your solution should aim to ease stress, anxiety, and other mental health challenges that are often amplified during this time.
BACKGROUND/SCENARIO:
The holiday season, while joyful for many, can also be a source of significant stress due to factors like family dynamics, financial pressures, and social expectations. This period can exacerbate feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and depression. To make your app relevant and effective, consider integrating concepts from a children's book that deals with emotions or mental health, such as "The Color Monster" by Anna Llenas, which helps children identify and understand their feelings.
CHALLENGE CATEGORIES:

• User Interface Design: Focus on creating an engaging, user-friendly interface that is accessible to a diverse audience.
• Content Creation: Develop content that provides mental health education, coping strategies, and positive affirmations.
• Interactive Features: Include interactive elements such as mood trackers, stress-relief games, or chatbots for immediate support.
• Resource Accessibility: Ensure the app provides links to professional help and resources for further support.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

• Submissions must include a detailed design document outlining the app's features, user interface, and functionality.
• Include a prototype or mock-up of the app interface.
• Explain how the app aligns with NGSS standards, particularly those related to technology and societal impacts.
• Submissions should be in PDF format, with a maximum length of 20 pages.

JUDGING CRITERIA:

• Innovation and Creativity: Originality of the app concept and features.
• Relevance: How well the app addresses the specific mental health challenges of the holiday season.
• User Experience: Usability, accessibility, and interface design quality.
• Content Quality: Accuracy and helpfulness of the mental health resources and information provided.
• Integration of Children’s Book Concepts: Effective use of themes or lessons from the chosen children's book.
• Alignment with NGSS Standards: Demonstration of understanding and application of relevant NGSS standards.