Research

Shaping Ideas into Reality - Why we are doing this?

The MELO Bubble Ring research report highlights the growing need for accessible anxiety management solutions, particularly for individuals under 45. Through surveys and interviews, it identifies key anxiety symptoms and user preferences, guiding the design of a wearable product focused on enhancing mental well-being.

Overview

Anxiety is becoming increasingly common in today's society, particularly among individuals under 45, highlighting the urgent need for innovative management solutions. Despite effective treatments and medications being available, many people with mental health issues do not seek professional help due to barriers such as cost, accessibility, lack of awareness, and cultural factors, alongside a belief in self-reliance.

Addressing these barriers is essential for improving access to mental health care and encouraging individuals to seek support. Our project aims to meet this need by developing a physical device that empowers users to monitor and manage their anxiety symptoms effectively. By providing a supportive tool that does not add to their burden, we hope to enhance their ability to cope with anxiety and promote overall mental well-being.


Design Process

The design process involves researching anxiety management needs, developing and refining prototypes based on user feedback, and finalizing and launching a wearable device that effectively integrates into daily life to manage anxiety.



Problem Validation

Background

Anxiety disorders have emerged as a significant mental health challenge, particularly among adults under the age of 45. The World Health Organization (2022) identifies anxiety as one of the most prevalent mental health conditions globally, affecting a considerable proportion of the population. As society increasingly grapples with the complexities of modern life—such as economic uncertainty, social pressures, and rapid technological changes—individuals within this age group experience heightened stress and anxiety levels.

The importance of addressing anxiety disorders cannot be overstated. Anxiety significantly impacts daily functioning, productivity, and overall quality of life. Research indicates that anxiety disorders can manifest as excessive worry, restlessness, and physical symptoms like increased heart rate and difficulty concentrating (American Psychiatric Association, 2013).



Target generation

Adults under 45 are particularly vulnerable, as they often face major life transitions, including career advancements, relationship changes, and family responsibilities. According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH, 2021), nearly 31.1% of U.S. adults experience anxiety disorders at some point in their lives, with those under 45 years old being disproportionately affected.



Challenges

Diagnosing and treating anxiety disorders presents numerous challenges. Societal factors, such as stigma and limited access to mental health resources, create barriers for individuals seeking help. Personal reasons, including a lack of awareness about anxiety disorders or fear of judgment, further complicate the issue. Many individuals may downplay their symptoms or believe they should handle their anxiety independently, which can delay diagnosis and treatment (Kroenke et al., 2007). Additionally, the symptoms of anxiety can overlap with other conditions, making accurate diagnosis a complex process.

Effective treatments for anxiety disorders exist and include both psychotherapy and pharmacological options. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) has been widely recognized as an effective approach, providing individuals with practical strategies to manage their symptoms (Hofmann et al., 2012). Medications, suchas Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and benzodiazepines, can also play a vital role in alleviating anxiety symptoms (Bandelow et al., 2017). However, despite the availability of these treatments, many individuals prefer self-soothing techniques over professional assistance. This preference may stem from a desire for immediate relief, perceived inconvenience, or discomfort with seeking help from mental health professionals.

Self-soothing practices, such as mindfulness, meditation, and the use of fidget tools, provide individuals with a sense of control over their anxiety without the need for external intervention. As anxiety continues to rise, it is crucial to create accessible and effective solutions that empower individuals to manage their symptoms proactively. By developing innovative tools, such as wearable devices, we can address the growing need for self-management options that cater to the unique challenges faced by adults under 45.




Our Goal

Our goal is to design a wearable solution tailored for young adults and individuals navigating significant life changes, enabling them to manage and release stress independently. Recognizing the unique pressures faced by college students under academic strain, recent graduates entering the job market, and parents juggling work and family responsibilities, our focus is on creating a device that is accessible, seamless, and non-invasive. We aim to ensure that the device integrates effortlessly into daily life, allowing users to cope with stress anytime and anywhere without adding to their anxiety.

Rather than attempting to solve anxiety outright, our objective is to provide a practical tool for stress relief that users can engage with in their own time. The device will be designed to be compact and discreet, resembling a fidget toy that users can carry with them without drawing unnecessary attention. By prioritizing usability and comfort, we want to empower users to take control of their stress management, fostering a sense of agency and well-being.

Ultimately, our concept will focus on delivering an innovative solution that encourages mindfulness and self-soothing techniques, facilitating healthier coping mechanisms. By addressing the everyday challenges faced by young adults, we aspire to create a device that enhances their ability to navigate life's pressures while promoting overall mental well-being. Through this approach, we aim to cultivate resilience and support users in their journey toward managing stress effectively.


Methodologies

Mixed-Methods Approach

Quantitative Research

To gain a foundational understanding of anxiety symptoms and user preferences, we distributed a questionnaire during our preliminary research phase. This survey aimed to gather data on the prevalence of anxiety symptoms, coping strategies, and attitudes towards wearable technology among individuals aged 18-45. We collected over 200 responses, providing us with valuable quantitative insights into the experiences and needs of our target audience. The data revealed common symptoms, preferred features in a wearable device, and barriers to seeking professional help, forming a solid basis for subsequent phases of the project.


Qualitative Research

Building on the insights gained from our quantitative research, we conducted qualitative interviews with selected participants. By reaching out to individuals who expressed interest in sharing their experiences with anxiety, we were able to delve deeper into their personal journeys. These interviews provided rich narratives about how anxiety manifests in their lives, the effectiveness of various coping strategies, and their feelings about existing treatment options. This qualitative data allowed us to capture the emotional and psychological dimensions of anxiety, enabling us to design a more empathetic and user-focused product.


Data Analysis and Iteration

Data analysis played a pivotal role in our iterative design process. We meticulously analyzed the quantitative data collected from surveys and the qualitative feedback from interviews. This analysis highlighted specific user needs and preferences, which we used to inform design iterations. By continuously refining our device based on user input, we aimed to enhance its functionality and usability, ensuring it meets the real-world needs of individuals managing anxiety.


User-Centered Design

A key element of our methodology is the User-Centered Design (UCD) approach, which emphasizes the importance of involving users throughout the design process. We created detailed personas based on the data collected from our surveys and interviews, representing different user types and their unique needs. Additionally, we developed user journey maps to visualize the experiences of our target audience, identifying critical pain points in their current anxiety management strategies. This visual representation helped us pinpoint areas where our wearable device could provide meaningful support and improve the overall user experience.


Literature Review

To ensure our design was grounded in evidence-based practices, we conducted a thorough literature review of existing research on anxiety disorders, effective treatments, and current technologies in mental health management. This review included an examination of various therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and pharmacological treatments, as well as an analysis of existing wearable technologies. By synthesizing findings from reputable sources, we were able to identify gaps in the current market and validate the need for an innovative solution.


Market Analysis

To position our wearable device effectively, we conducted market analysis of existing anxiety management solutions and wearable technologies. This involved examining the strengths and weaknesses of current products in the market, identifying unique selling points and features that could differentiate our approach.


Behavioral Analysis

We explored the use of wearable technology to monitor physiological indicators of anxiety, such as heart rate variability. This research involved examining existing methodologies for capturing real-time data and understanding how physiological changes correlate with anxiety symptoms. By integrating this behavioral analysis into our design, we aimed to create a solution that not only monitors anxiety but also provides users with actionable insights to help them manage their symptoms effectively.


Expert Consultation

Recognizing the importance of professional insights, we collaborated with mental health professionals throughout the project. Their expertise was invaluable in validating our approach, refining our messaging, and ensuring that the device’s functionalities align with best practices in anxiety management. This collaboration not only enhanced the credibility of our project but also provided us with critical feedback that informed our design decisions.


Literature Review

Treatment of anxiety disorders

The article by Bandelow, Michaelis, and Wedekind (2017) provides a comprehensive overview of the treatment options for anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. The authors discuss the efficacy of various treatments, such as pharmacotherapy and psychotherapy, and highlight the importance of individualized treatment plans. They emphasize that both pharmacological treatments, like SSRIs and SNRIs, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) are effective, with the best outcomes often resulting from a combination of the two. The article also addresses newer treatment modalities, such as internet-based therapies, which show promise, especially when access to traditional therapy is limited​ (BioMed Central)​.

Reference: Bandelow, B., Michaelis, S., & Wedekind, D. (2017). Treatment of anxiety disorders. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 19(2), 93–107. https://doi.org/10.31887/dcns.2017.19.2/bbandelow


Internet psychotherapeutic interventions for anxiety disorders – a critical evaluation

The article by Bandelow, Michaelis, and Wedekind (2017) reviews the treatment of anxiety disorders, focusing on generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder. The authors highlight the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments, such as SSRIs and SNRIs, and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), with a combination often yielding the best results. The article also explores newer modalities like internet-based therapies, emphasizing the need for personalized treatment plans and the importance of accessibility to therapy.

Reference: Bandelow, B., & Wedekind, D. (2022). Internet psychotherapeutic interventions for anxiety disorders – A critical evaluation. BMC Psychiatry, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12888-022-04002-1


Examining the Impacts of Subtle Fidget Jewelry on Anxiety, Stress, and Attention

Jennifer Persia's 2023 study, "Examining the impacts of subtle fidget jewelry on anxiety, stress, and attention," explores how fidget rings might help manage anxiety and improve focus. Conducted at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the research involved 51 healthy adults who were randomly assigned either a fidget ring or a placebo ring. These participants wore the rings for one week and completed daily surveys measuring anxiety, stress, attention, and engagement with the ring.

The study found that those using the fidget rings reported a significant decrease in anxiety levels compared to the control group, supporting the hypothesis that fidgeting can help individuals self-regulate anxiety by providing a physical outlet for nervous energy. The research underscores the potential of fidget jewelry as a practical tool for anxiety management, although further investigation is necessary to understand the long-term effects and mechanisms behind these benefits.

Reference: Persia, J. (2023, April 24). Examining the impacts of subtle fidget jewelry on anxiety, stress, and attention. Carolina Digital Repository. https://cdr.lib.unc.edu/concern/honors_theses/n87102128


Review of Wearable Devices and Data Collection Considerations for Connected Health

The article by Vijayan et al. (2021) provides a comprehensive overview of the use of wearable sensor technology in healthcare. It highlights how these devices can monitor patient health, assist in disease diagnosis, and improve patient outcomes through real-time feedback. Wearable sensors are employed in various applications, from tracking human activity and sleep patterns to assessing and quantifying physiological parameters.

The authors discuss the advantages of wearable technology, such as its cost-effectiveness, small size, and ability to provide continuous monitoring outside of clinical settings. This technology can significantly reduce healthcare costs by enabling remote rehabilitation and monitoring. However, the article also points out challenges, such as the immense volume of data generated, which requires sophisticated data management and analysis techniques.

The review emphasizes the importance of wearable devices in connected health, offering a detailed discussion on current data collection techniques and the potential of wearable sensors to transform healthcare delivery by providing more accurate and objective health assessments compared to traditional methods.

Reference: Vijayan, V., Connolly, J. P., Condell, J., McKelvey, N., & Gardiner, P. (2021, August 19). Review of Wearable Devices and data collection considerations for Connected Health. MDPI. https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8220/21/16/5589


Quantitative Research Report

In our effort to understand anxiety symptoms, coping strategies, and attitudes towards wearable technology among individuals aged 18-45, we developed a comprehensive questionnaire consisting of 13 questions, designed to be completed in approximately five minutes. We successfully collected 229 responses, achieving an impressive 84% completion rate. This response set offers valuable insights into the prevalence and impact of anxiety within our target demographic.



The data revealed significant prevalence of physical, cognitive, and behavioral symptoms of anxiety, indicating the substantial impact these issues have on daily life. Participants reported a range of physical symptoms that affect their well-being, alongside cognitive challenges such as excessive worry and difficulty concentrating. Behavioral symptoms further illustrated how individuals cope with anxiety in various situations.



When designing the questionnaire, we intentionally avoided using the term “anxiety disorders” to minimize the risk of triggering participants. Instead, we focused on common physical symptoms associated with anxiety. The results revealed that approximately 75% of participants reported experiencing symptoms such as increased heart rate, fatigue, excessive sweating, and muscle tension within the past month. This high prevalence underscores the significant impact of these physical manifestations on daily life and highlights the urgent need for effective stress management solutions tailored to this demographic.



We also inquired about participants' history of seeking professional help for anxiety symptoms. Surprisingly, while over 60% of respondents indicated that they had considered seeking assistance, only 23.14% had actually pursued professional help. The primary barriers identified included a lack of awareness about available resources and the cost of therapy, which were the two most commonly cited reasons for not seeking help. Additional factors contributing to this trend were the time-consuming nature of therapy and a strong belief in self-management strategies.


Qualitative Research Report

Through in-depth interviews, we explored the lives of two indivisuals: Emily, a 29-year-old marketing specialist, and Michael, a 36-year-old IT project manager. Both interviewees provided valuable insights into their coping mechanisms, attitudes towards professional help, and thoughts on wearable technology.


Qualitative Research Questions

Personal Experience and Impact

  1. Can you describe your experience with anxiety?

  2. How do your anxiety symptoms affect your daily life and activities?

  3. What physical symptoms do you notice most often when you are feeling anxious?

  4. Can you share a story of where your anxiety significantly impacted your work or personal life?

Coping Mechanisms and Self-Management

  1. What strategies or techniques do you currently use to manage your anxiety?

  2. Have you found the strategies to be especially helpful or unhelpful in reducing your anxiety?

  3. How do you perceive the role of physical activity in managing your anxiety symptoms?

  4. Do you use any apps or digital tools to help manage your anxiety? If so, how do you think of it?

Attitudes Towards Therapy and Treatment

  1. Have you sought professional help for your anxiety? If yes, what was your experience like?

  2. If you have not sought professional help, can you explain why?

  3. What would make you more comfortable or willing to seek professional help for your anxiety?

Perceptions of Wearable Technology

  1. What are your initial thoughts on using a wearable device to help manage anxiety symptoms?

  2. What features would you find most useful in the wearable device?

  3. How do you think real-time readings on physiological symptoms would impact anxiety management?

  4. Do you think a wearable device could serve as a discreet tool for anxiety management in social or professional settings? Why or why not?

Insights on Self-Soothing Techniques

  1. Have you used fidget toys or other self-soothing tools to manage your anxiety? How effective were they?

  2. Can you describe any physical or tactile methods you use to calm yourself when feeling down?

  3. What qualities would you look for in a fidget toy or self-soothing tool?

General Feedback and Suggestions

  1. What do you think are the biggest challenges in managing anxiety that current solutions do not address?

  2. How could a wearable device be designed to better meet your needs for anxiety management?

  3. What concerns or reservations do you have about using wearable technology for mental health?


Key Findings

Emily described her anxiety as an overwhelming presence that affects her concentration and social interactions. “It’s like a constant background noise in my mind,” she explained, highlighting how her anxiety can disrupt her daily life. She frequently experiences physical symptoms such as increased heart rate and muscle tension, particularly during high-stress situations at work. “When I have deadlines looming, I feel a tightness in my chest that just won’t go away,” she added. To manage her anxiety, Emily employs mindfulness techniques and physical activity, finding yoga particularly beneficial. Despite contemplating professional help, she expressed concerns about the cost and the stigma associated with seeking mental health support. “I feel like I should be able to handle this on my own,” she said, revealing her hesitation to pursue treatment.

In contrast, Michael articulated a self-reliant approach to managing his anxiety, relying on time management and regular physical exercise. “Exercise is essential; it helps clear my mind,” he noted. Although he has sought therapy in the past, he found it unhelpful and has since preferred to implement personal strategies. “I didn’t feel like I got actionable advice; it was more of a talking session,” he said. Both participants emphasized the need for immediate, actionable solutions rather than long-term therapeutic approaches, indicating a gap in existing support systems.

Their responses underscored the importance of developing a discreet and portable wearable device designed to monitor physiological symptoms and provide real-time feedback. When discussing the potential of such a device, Emily stated, “If I had something that could alert me when my heart rate spikes, it would help me address my anxiety before it escalates.” Key features mentioned by both participants included heart rate monitoring, stress-reduction exercises, and seamless integration into daily routines. Michael expressed a similar sentiment, saying, “I’d want it to remind me to take breaks and do calming exercises when I need them most.

The findings from these interviews highlight the necessity of creating effective tools that empower individuals to manage their anxiety proactively. Both interviewees acknowledged the role of technology in supporting their mental health, with Michael noting, “Having a device that tracks my symptoms could really help me understand my triggers better.” The insights gathered from this qualitative research not only inform the design of the wearable device but also emphasize the importance of addressing the emotional and practical needs of individuals facing anxiety.


Technical Feasibility

As part of our comprehensive project to develop an innovative wearable device aimed at managing anxiety, we conducted both technical and marketing research to evaluate the feasibility of our solution.

Our material selection focuses on both outer and inner components of the ring. Titanium is considered for its durability, lightweight nature, and hypoallergenic properties, while zirconia ceramic offers aesthetic appeal and scratch resistance. For the inner lining, we propose using epoxy resin for comfort and medical-grade silicone for flexibility and skin compatibility. Combining a durable inner material like titanium with a silicone outer layer allows for structural integrity and tactile interaction, essential for stress relief.

Design considerations emphasize comfort for extended wear and seamless integration of technology, including sensors, a compact battery, and a Bluetooth module for app connectivity. Managing heat generated by electronic components is crucial, using materials that facilitate heat dissipation and incorporating insulation layers for user comfort.

Battery life is a priority; we are evaluating compact, high-density batteries that support low-energy Bluetooth technology to minimize recharging while maintaining performance. Dynamic power management will optimize energy consumption based on activity, extending battery life significantly. This approach ensures our wearable device is functional, comfortable, and user-friendly, enhancing the overall user experience.


Competitor Analysis

Our competitive analysis encompassed a range of products in the wearable technology and anxiety management market, providing insights into various types of solutions available.


Physical Device

Through this competitive analysis, we identified a variety of strengths and weaknesses among existing products. While many competitors offer stylish, durable options, they often lack the technological integration needed for effective anxiety management. Our wearable device aims to bridge this gap by combining aesthetic appeal, comfort, and advanced monitoring capabilities, ensuring that it meets the diverse needs of individuals seeking to manage anxiety effectively.



Digital Software

StressWatch

Focuses on monitoring stress levels using AI technology, but does not provide the physical, tactile feedback.


OURA

Excels in comprehensive health tracking but lacks specific anxiety management features.


Persona

Based on the preliminary research, we created personas for our product.


Persona One


Persona Two


Journey Map

Based on our previous research and insights, we developed a user journey map to visualize the steps our target users take while interacting with our product. This map outlines key phases, from initial awareness through to regular use, and identifies specific challenges users may encounter at each stage.