Project Overview
Solara is an AI-powered companion designed to support students in managing stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. The platform uses a chatbot named Solara to offer 24/7 emotional support, guided conversations, and resources based on the user's needs.
Problem Statement
Many students experience mental health frustrations but lack access to timely support, especially in the absence of affordable face-to-face counselling. Stigma and long waiting times for mental health services further worsen the issue.
Solution
Solara provides a safe and confidential space for students to share their concerns through an AI-powered chatbot. Additionally, the platform features a mood graph to track emotional trends over time, a journal for self-reflection, and content recommendations tailored to users' journal entries to further support their mental well-being.
Design Process
Empathize
Conducted surveys and interviews with students to understand their mental health needs and reluctance to seek help.
Define
Designed an interface that was calming, confidential, and easy to use.
Ideate
Focused on developing AI-driven features like mood tracking and mental health resources suggestions.
Prototype
Created wireframes and -fidelity prototypes for the platform’s user interface.
Test
Ran usability tests, collecting feedback on the chatbot’s accuracy and ease of use.
Expected Impact
90% of students report feeling less anxious after using the platform for a month.
Increased overall mental health awareness on campus.
The AI-powered chatbot saves students 30% of their wait time compared to traditional counseling methods.