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Mental Health Companion App
Research Proposal · May 2023
DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.15565.65760
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Anvit Rajesh Patil
California State University, Fullerton
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Mental Health Companion App
Prepared by:
Anvit Rajesh Patil
885192716
CPSC 589
Table of Contents
1. Introduction .................................................................................................................... 1
1.1. Problem Domain and Background .......................................................................... 1
1.2. Current Solutions .......................................................................................................... 1
1.2.1. Traditional Mental Health Interventions ............................................................... 1
1.2.2. Online and Digital Interventions .............................................................................. 2
1.3. Problem Solution .......................................................................................................... 2
1.4. Challenges and Potential Research.......................................................................... 3
2. Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 5
3. Project Activities .......................................................................................................... 7
3.1. Development Task and Activities............................................................................ 7
3.2. Research and Development Tasks ........................................................................... 7
3.3. Software Requirement Specifications .................................................................... 8
4. Environment................................................................................................................... 9
4.1. Hardware ......................................................................................................................... 9
4.2. Programming Languages and Frameworks .......................................................... 9
4.3. Software Tools .............................................................................................................. 9
5. Project Results ............................................................................................................. 10
5.1. Final Product ................................................................................................................ 10
5.2. Demonstration and Presentation ............................................................................ 10
6. Project Schedule ......................................................................................................... 11
7. References .................................................................................................................... 12
7.1. Academic References ................................................................................................ 12
8. Appendices ................................................................................................................... 13
List of Figures
Figure 1.1-1. Prevalence of mental health disorders in 2021.................................................................... 1
Figure 2-1. ER flow of the system ................................................................................................................. 6
List of Tables
Table 2-1. Project Objectives .............................................................................................................................. 5
Table 6-1. Project Schedule ............................................................................................................................... 11
1. Introduction
1.1 Problem Domain and Background
The mental health field has become an increasingly important area of focus, with millions worldwide
experiencing mental health disorders and seeking support. However, the accessibility and availability of
mental health services remain significant challenges. Many individuals face barriers like limited access to
professional help, long appointment waiting times, and the stigma of seeking mental health support.
The prevalence of mental health disorders has increased dramatically in the past decade, impacting people
of all ages and demographics. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services
Administration (SAMHSA) National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) data from 2011 to 2021,
the prevalence of mental health disorders has shown a concerning upward trend.
Figure 1.1-1. Prevalence of mental health disorders in 2021
Mental health disorders affect an individual's well-being and significantly impact their daily functioning,
relationships, and overall quality of life. Access to mental health services and support remains a challenge
for many individuals, with barriers such as cost, stigma, and limited availability of resources.
Technological advancements have provided new opportunities for addressing these challenges in recent
years. Mobile applications, or apps, have gained popularity as tools for mental health support due to their
convenience, scalability, and potential for personalized interventions. These apps promise to reach a
wider audience, provide timely support, and empower individuals to take an active role in managing their
mental well-being.
1.2 Current Solutions
1.2.1 Traditional Mental Health Interventions
Traditional mental health interventions include face-to-face therapy, counseling, and psychiatric
medication. These approaches have been effective for many individuals and are typically administered by
trained professionals. However, several challenges are associated with traditional interventions, such as
limited access, long waiting lists, high costs, and stigma associated with seeking mental health support.
1.2.2 Online and Digital Interventions
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With technological advancements, online and digital interventions have emerged as alternative
approaches to delivering mental health support. These interventions include online therapy platforms,
self-help websites, and mental health mobile applications. They provide convenience, anonymity, and
accessibility to individuals seeking support. However, the effectiveness and quality of these interventions
vary, and not all individuals may have access to reliable internet connections or digital devices.
While numerous wellness apps are available in the market, it is essential to note that not all apps are
evidence-based or supported by rigorous research. Evaluating these apps' efficacy, credibility, and user
experience is crucial in determining their effectiveness in supporting mental health and well-being. Some
common shortcomings of these apps are:
• Lack of Personalization: Many wellness apps offer generic content without considering individual
needs and preferences. Personalization is crucial in addressing specific mental health concerns
and providing tailored recommendations for each user.
• Lack of Long-Term Engagement: Sustaining user engagement over time can be challenging for
wellness apps. Enhancements can be made by implementing strategies such as goal-setting
features, progress tracking, reminders, and motivational prompts to encourage continued usage
and habit formation.
• Incomplete Integration of Multiple Dimensions of Wellness: Wellness encompasses various
dimensions, including mental, emotional, physical, and social well-being. Many apps focus on
one or a few dimensions, needing more opportunities to provide a holistic approach. A
comprehensive mental health companion app should consider and integrate multiple dimensions
of wellness.
• Data Privacy and Security: Privacy concerns regarding user data and information security are
critical in wellness apps. Implementing robust privacy measures and ensuring transparent data
handling practices are essential for building user trust.
1.3 Problem Solution
Our application is a mental health companion app designed to address the growing challenges in mental
health and provide support to individuals. It aims to leverage the potential of smartphone technology to
offer accessible and convenient tools for managing mental health conditions and promoting overall well-
being.
The app will provide various features and functionalities that cater to various aspects of mental health,
such as anxiety, stress, depression, and mindfulness. Users will have access to guided meditation sessions,
breathing exercises, mood-tracking tools, personalized goal setting, and educational resources on mental
health. Additionally, the app will incorporate features for self-care reminders, journaling, and access to
professional support through online counseling or therapy sessions.
Our app aims to empower individuals to take proactive steps toward their mental well-being by
combining evidence-based practices, user-friendly interfaces, and personalized approaches. It will provide
a supportive and interactive platform where users can track their progress, gain insights into their mental
health patterns, and receive tailored recommendations for self-care and coping strategies.
The critical components of our problem solution include:
• Personalization: Our app will leverage advanced algorithms and user input to provide
personalized recommendations and interventions tailored to each user's needs and goals. By
considering individual preferences, mental health history, and current challenges, we can deliver
a more targeted and effective user experience.
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• Engaging User Experience: We understand the importance of user engagement in achieving
positive outcomes. Our app will feature interactive elements, gamification elements, progress
tracking, and goal-setting features to promote ongoing user engagement and motivation. Users
will be encouraged to actively participate in their mental health journey through a visually
appealing and intuitive interface.
• Comprehensive Well-being: Our app will go beyond addressing only specific mental health
concerns. We recognize the interconnectedness of mental, emotional, physical, and social well-
being. Therefore, our app will offer a holistic approach that integrates various dimensions of
wellness, providing users with tools and resources to enhance their overall well-being.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: We prioritize making our app accessible and inclusive for all users.
We will incorporate features such as adjustable font sizes, language options, and compatibility
with screen readers to ensure that individuals with disabilities or language barriers can fully
engage with the app's content and features.
• Data Privacy and Security: User privacy and data security are of utmost importance to us. We
will implement robust security measures to protect user information and adhere to strict privacy
guidelines. Transparent data handling practices, user consent mechanisms, and encryption
protocols will be in place to ensure a safe and trustworthy user experience.
1.4 Challenges and Potential Research
The development and implementation of this app come with several challenges and potential areas for
further research. These challenges include:
• User Engagement: Ensuring long-term user engagement and adherence to the app can be
challenging. Research is needed to identify effective strategies for promoting sustained user
engagement, motivation, and adherence to app usage.
• Data Privacy and Security: Mental health apps handle sensitive user data, making data privacy
and security paramount. Research can focus on developing robust security measures, complying
with privacy regulations, and implementing encryption and anonymization techniques to protect
user information.
• Efficacy and Effectiveness: Conducting rigorous research studies to evaluate the efficacy and
effectiveness of the app in improving mental health outcomes is essential. Research should
involve randomized controlled trials and long-term follow-ups to assess the app's impact on
symptom reduction, well-being enhancement, and overall quality of life.
• Integration with Clinical Settings: Exploring ways to integrate the app with existing clinical
settings and mental healthcare systems can enhance its effectiveness. Research can investigate
collaboration models, data-sharing mechanisms, and seamless integration with healthcare
providers to ensure continuity of care and improved treatment outcomes.
• Accessibility and Inclusivity: Ensuring the app's accessibility and inclusivity for diverse
populations, including individuals with disabilities or language barriers, is crucial. Research can
focus on enhancing the app's usability, language options, and accessibility features to
accommodate a wide range of users.
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• Ethical Considerations: Ethical issues related to data collection, informed consent, and potential
biases in algorithm-based recommendations require careful attention. To address these concerns,
further research should explore ethical frameworks, guidelines, and user-centered approaches.
By addressing these challenges and conducting further research in these areas, we can continually
improve the effectiveness, usability, and impact of our mental health companion app, making a
meaningful contribution to the field of mental health technology and supporting individuals in their
journey toward better mental well-being.
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2. Objectives
The app's primary goal is to provide individuals with a convenient and accessible platform that offers
valuable tools and resources for mental health management. By incorporating self-assessment tools, users
can monitor their mental health status, track their progress, and gain insights into their emotional well-
being. This feature promotes self-awareness and early detection of potential mental health issues,
enabling individuals to seek appropriate support and interventions.
Another key objective is to offer a library of guided meditation and relaxation exercises within the app.
These exercises will cater to different needs and preferences, allowing users to engage in mindfulness
practices that promote stress reduction, relaxation, and emotional balance. The app aims to facilitate
emotional regulation and promote overall well-being by integrating such features.
This project holds significant value as a master's project for several reasons. Firstly, mental health is a
critical global issue, and the development of innovative technological solutions can significantly improve
mental well-being and overall quality of life for individuals. Secondly, the project incorporates elements
of software development, user experience design, and psychological research, providing a
multidisciplinary approach that aligns with the objectives of a master's program.
The specific objectives to be achieved through this project include:
Activities Description
User Interface Designing the app's graphical user interface (GUI) ensures a visually appealing and
Design user-friendly design that enhances usability and user experience.
Mobile App We are developing the mobile application using programming languages such as Java
Development or Swift. We leverage frameworks and libraries to create a robust and responsive app
for various mobile platforms (iOS and Android).
Data Management We are implementing a data management system to securely store user information,
assessment results, and user preferences, ensuring data privacy and compliance with
relevant regulations.
Algorithm Design We are designing algorithms and logic to enable functionalities such as self-
assessment scoring, personalized recommendations, and data analysis for insights and
trends related to user mental health.
Integration of We are integrating relevant application programming interfaces (APIs) such as
APIs meditation libraries, mental health assessment tools, and communication tools to
enhance the app's features and functionality.
Data Analytics Applying data analytics techniques to analyze user data, identify patterns, and
generate insights that can contribute to improving the app's effectiveness and
personalized user experience.
Security and We are implementing robust security measures, including encryption techniques,
Privacy secure user authentication, and data anonymization to protect user information and
ensure privacy throughout the app.
Testing and We are conducting rigorous testing and quality assurance processes to identify and
Quality Assurance address any software bugs, usability issues, or performance concerns, ensuring users a
stable and reliable app.
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Continuous Continuously monitoring user feedback, analyzing app usage data, and iterating on
Improvement the app's features and functionalities to improve user satisfaction, address emerging
needs, and stay up-to-date with advancements in mental health technology.
Table 2-1 Project Objectives
The preliminary analysis yielded the results displayed in the form of Fig. 3.3-1. which shows the
ER flow for the proposed application:
Figure 2-1. ER flow of the system
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3. Project Activities
3.1. Development Task and Activities
Application development will begin by conducting extensive user research and needs assessment. This
will involve gathering information about user needs, preferences, and expectations through surveys,
interviews, and focus groups. We can tailor the app to meet their specific needs by understanding the
target audience and their requirements.
Next, we will analyze existing mental health apps to evaluate their strengths, weaknesses, and areas for
improvement. This analysis will provide valuable insights into the features, functionalities, and user
experience that are most effective in addressing mental health challenges.
Based on the user research and app analysis, we will define the key features and functionalities of the app.
This will involve selecting relevant mental health tools, such as guided meditation, stress management
techniques, mood tracking, and self-assessment modules. By incorporating these features, the app will
provide a comprehensive solution for users' mental well-being.
Additionally, we will establish design guidelines and ensure a seamless user experience throughout the
app. This will involve creating an intuitive and visually appealing user interface, optimizing the
navigation flow, and incorporating user-friendly interactions. By prioritizing user experience, we aim to
make the app engaging, easy to use, and accessible to many users.
The development process will be divided into several phases, each with specific tasks and deliverables.
• Phase 1: Planning and Design
In this phase, we will develop the project scope and requirements, clearly defining the objectives and
success criteria. We will create wireframes and design the user interface to establish the app's visual
identity. Additionally, we will develop the data management system architecture to ensure secure storage
and retrieval of user data.
• Phase 2: Development and Testing
During this phase, we will implement the front-end and back-end functionality of the app. This
includes developing user interfaces, integrating APIs and databases, and implementing algorithms for
personalized recommendations and data analysis. Rigorous testing, including unit testing and debugging,
will ensure the app's stability, functionality, and performance.
• Phase 3: Deployment and Iteration
In this final phase, we will deploy the app to major app stores, making it accessible to users. We will
actively gather user feedback and conduct surveys to collect insights and identify areas for improvement.
Based on this feedback, we will iterate on the app, implementing user-requested enhancements and
updates.
3.2. Research and Development Tasks:
• Conduct Literature Review:
o Explore existing research and publications on mental health, mobile app development,
and user behavior.
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o Gain insights into the latest advancements, best practices, and innovative approaches in
the field.
• User Research and Needs Assessment:
o Conduct surveys, interviews, and focus groups to understand user needs, preferences, and
expectations regarding mental health apps.
o Gather valuable insights to inform the design and development of our app, ensuring it meets
the specific requirements of our target audience.
• Design and Prototyping:
o Create wireframes and design prototypes of the app's user interface, considering usability,
accessibility, and visual appeal.
o Iterate on the design based on user feedback and preferences to enhance the overall user
experience.
• Algorithm Development:
o Develop algorithms for self-assessment scoring, personalized recommendations, and data
analysis to provide tailored support to users.
o Ensure the algorithms are accurate, reliable, and aligned with established mental health
frameworks and guidelines.
• Data Management and Privacy:
o Design and implement a secure and compliant data management system to handle user
data and protect privacy.
o Establish protocols and safeguards to maintain confidentiality and adhere to relevant data
protection regulations.
3.3. Software Requirement Specifications
• Functional Requirements:
Define the specific features and functionalities that the app should offer, such as self-assessment
tools, stress management techniques, guided meditations, and mood tracking. Specify the desired
user interactions, navigation flow, and overall user experience within the app.
• Technical Requirements:
Identify the technologies, programming languages, and frameworks required to develop the app.
Determine the compatibility and integration requirements with various operating systems and
devices.
• Performance Requirements:
Define the performance benchmarks, such as app responsiveness, load times, and stability, to
ensure a smooth and efficient user experience. Consider scalability requirements to accommodate
potential growth in user base and data volume.
• Security and Privacy Requirements:
Establish security measures to protect user data from unauthorized access and ensure compliance
with privacy regulations. Implement encryption protocols, user authentication mechanisms, and
data anonymization techniques.
Page | 8
4. Environment
The following subsections detail the hardware and software that comprise the
environment needed to implement this project.
4.1. Hardware:
• Development Computers:
High-performance laptops or desktop computers with modern processors, sufficient RAM, and
ample storage capacity to support software development and testing activities.
• Mobile Devices:
A range of smartphones and tablets representative of the target user base to ensure compatibility
and optimize the user experience.
4.2. Programming Languages and Frameworks:
• Mobile App Development:
The application will be developed using the cross-platform framework Flutter, allowing for
simultaneous development for iOS and Android platforms.
• Back-end Development:
The back end will be implemented using Python.
• Web Technologies:
HTML5, CSS3, and JavaScript will be used to develop web-based components or administration
interfaces.
4.3. Software Tools:
• Integrated Development Environment (IDE):
Common IDEs such as Visual Studio Code and Android Studio will be used for coding,
debugging, and testing.
• Version Control:
Git will be used for efficient code management and collaboration among team members.
• Testing Frameworks:
Various testing frameworks such as Jest, XCTest, and Espresso can be employed to conduct the
application's unit, integration, and UI testing.
• Database Management:
The database management system of choice is MySQL.
Page | 9
5. Project Results
The project aims to deliver tangible outcomes and achieve specific results that contribute to the field of
mental health support and technology. The following are the expected project results:
5.1. `Final Products:
• Mental Health Companion Application:
A fully functional and user-friendly mobile application that provides a range of features and resources to
support mental well-being, promote self-care, and offer guidance and assistance to users.
• Back-end Infrastructure:
A robust and scalable back-end infrastructure that supports the application's functionality, including data
storage, user management, and integration with external APIs and services.
• Web-based Dashboard/Admin Panel:
A web-based interface for administrators or healthcare professionals to manage user accounts, access
analytics, and insights, and perform administrative tasks.
5.2. Demonstration and Presentation:
• Live Application Demonstration:
The functioning mental health companion application will be demonstrated to the project advisor,
showcasing its features, user interface, and overall functionality. This demonstration will highlight the
app's usability, performance, and adherence to project objectives.
• Presentation of Research Findings:
The project will include a comprehensive presentation summarizing the research, development process,
and critical findings. This presentation will provide insights into the significance of the application, the
challenges encountered, and the solutions implemented.
• Documentation and Reports:
Detailed documentation will be prepared and delivered to the advisor and the CS Department, including
technical specifications, user manuals, and project reports. These documents will serve as a
comprehensive reference for understanding the project's implementation details and outcomes.
The project results aim to showcase a functional and impactful mental health companion application
along with the necessary documentation and insights gained from the research and development process.
Page | 10
6. Project Schedule
Table (6-1) shows the project schedule outlining the phases, activities, and estimated hours required to
complete the project successfully.
Phase Activity Estimated Hours
Phase 1: Planning Project Kickoff Meeting 2
Requirements Gathering 10
Project Scope Definition 8
Risk Assessment and Mitigation 6
Phase 2: Research Literature Review 15
Data Collection and Analysis 20
Phase 3: Development System Design and Architecture 20
Front-end Development 40
Back-end Development 40
Phase 4: Testing Unit Testing 10
Integration Testing 10
User Acceptance Testing 10
Phase 5: Deployment App Deployment 10
Documentation and Reporting 10
Phase 6: Presentation Final Presentation 4
Total 215
Table 6-1. Project Schedule
The first phase is the planning phase, which includes activities such as the project kickoff meeting,
requirements gathering, defining the project scope, and identifying and addressing potential risks. This
phase is crucial for setting the foundation of the project.
The second phase is dedicated to research, involving conducting a literature review and collecting and
analyzing relevant data. This phase helps in gaining insights and understanding the problem domain.
The third phase is development, where the system design and architecture are planned and implemented.
It includes front-end and back-end development tasks, ensuring a functional and user-friendly application
is created.
The fourth phase focuses on testing, with activities like unit testing, integration testing, and user
acceptance testing. This phase ensures that the application meets the required quality standards and
functionality.
The fifth phase involves deploying the application, ensuring it is ready. It also includes tasks related to
documentation and reporting, ensuring that all necessary documentation is prepared.
The final phase is the presentation phase, where the project is presented to the stakeholders, including the
final project presentation.
Overall, the project is estimated to require a total of 215 hours of effort spread across the different phases
and activities.
Page | 11
7. References
7.1. ACADEMIC REFERENCES
• Smartphone apps for treating mental health conditions: status and considerations" by Kit
Huckvale, Jennifer Nicholas, John Torous, Mark E Larsen. Current Opinion in Psychology,
Volume 36, 2020, Pages 65-70, ISSN 2352-250X, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.copsyc.2020.04.008.
• Firth, J., Torous, J., Nicholas, J., Carney, R., Pratap, A., Rosenbaum, S. and Sarris, J. (2017), The
efficacy of smartphone-based mental health interventions for depressive symptoms: a meta-
analysis of randomized controlled trials. World Psychiatry, 16: 287-298.
https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20472
• Schlegl S, Bürger C, Schmidt L, Herbst N, Voderholzer U
The Potential of Technology-Based Psychological Interventions for Anorexia and Bulimia
Nervosa: A Systematic Review and Recommendations for Future Research
J Med Internet Res 2015;17(3):e85
URL: https://www.jmir.org/2015/3/e85 | DOI: 10.2196/jmir.3554
• Stanley, R. (2002), Anxiety and its Disorders—The Nature and Treatment of Anxiety and Panic
David H. Barlow (Editor), The Guilford Press, New York, 2002. No. of pages: 704 pp., ISBN 1-
57230-430-8. Stress and Health, 18: 193-194. https://doi.org/10.1002/smi.941
• Torous, J., Bucci, S., Bell, I.H., Kessing, L.V., Faurholt-Jepsen, M., Whelan, P., Carvalho, A.F.,
Keshavan, M., Linardon, J. and Firth, J. (2021), The growing field of digital psychiatry:
current evidence and the future of apps, social media, chatbots, and virtual reality.
World Psychiatry, 20: 318-335. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20883
• Odgers, C.L. and Jensen, M.R. (2020), Annual Research Review: Adolescent mental health
in the digital age: facts, fears, and future directions. J Child Psychol Psychiatr, 61: 336-
348. https://doi.org/10.1111/jcpp.13190
Page | 12
8. Appendices
Appendix A: Diagnostic And Statistical Manual Of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision
(DSM-5-TR) https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.books.9780890425787
Appendix B: "About Mental Health". www.cdc.gov. 2021-11-23. Retrieved 2022-04-11
Appendix C: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), National
Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 2011-2021.
https://www.samhsa.gov/data/release/2021-national-survey-drug-use-and-health-nsduh-
releases.
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