UX RESEARCH + PROTOTYPE
A project we worked on for a 24 hour designathon, where our team created a playful journaling companion that helps users reflect, process emotions and build healthier mental health habits.
UX Research
Mascot Design
Mental Health Journaling
Problem
Many people want support while working through difficult emotions, but therapy can be hard to find, expensive, or unavailable when they need it. Journaling is more accessible, yet reflecting alone can feel overwhelming and difficult to sustain. We saw an opportunity to make the process feel safer, more consistent, and less isolating.
Brainstorming & Concept Selection
1. Explore the problem space
2. Shape the experience
Selected direction ★★★
A playful Gen Z journal companion for reflection, check-ins, and encouraging progress.
References & Designs
We studied journaling, character, and habit-building patterns to shape a warm, supportive experience.
01
Guided Reflection
Gentle prompts and mood check-ins help users reflect without feeling clinical.
02
A Companion With Personality
Friendly character references shaped a warm companion that makes check-ins feel personal.
03
Personalized Growth
Personalized goals and a growing tree turn consistent reflection into visible progress.
Final Features
The final concept combines emotional support, meaningful personalization, and gentle motivation without making mental-health care feel clinical or overwhelming.
01
Journal Companion
Users can talk through an entry with a supportive character. The companion reflects emotional patterns, offers gentle insights, and suggests coping strategies.
02
Personalized Onboarding
Users choose a companion, personality, tone, and values that feel comfortable. Rewards unlock cosmetic options while keeping the experience personal.
03
Rewards That Grow
Daily journaling grows a 30-day sapling into a tree. Users earn cosmetics and companions, and a completed tree can be planted in their name.
Goal
Our goal was to design an approachable journaling experience that makes emotional reflection feel less intimidating and less isolating. Through a customizable companion and gentle progress rewards, we aimed to help users build a consistent mental health habit without replacing professional care or overwhelming them with clinical language.
Final Prototype
Explore the interactive journaling companion and see how reflection, personalization, and rewards come together in the final experience.
Open prototype ↗
Designathon Presentation
Explore the full project presentation below.
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