Mobile App Design
Rewire Your Brain
Rewire Your Brain
Rewire Your Brain
At-A-Glance
At-A-Glance
‘Dopago’ is a CBT-based psychotherapy app designed for modern day people who are living in a time of unprecedented access to instant gratifications, high-dopamine stimuli. Dopago aims to induce adequate level of dopamine for each individuals allowing them to have a pleasurable rehab journey.
Solo Project
Solo Project
My Role
My Role
Product Design - user research, visual design
Timeline
Timeline
Dec 2022 - Jan 2023
Dec 2022 - Jan 2023
Tools
Tools
Figma, Miro
Figma, Miro
Starting thoughts…
We are now all addicts to a degree
As a curious observer of human nature, I've noticed many of my peers are struggling with minor addictions that prevent them from focusing on their main goals in life.
Starting thoughts…
We are now all addicts to a degree
As a curious observer of human nature, I've noticed many of my peers are struggling with minor addictions that prevent them from focusing on their main goals in life.
SOLUTION
Make the journey pleasurable
Make the journey pleasurable
During my research, I discovered that simply abstaining from addictive behavior alone is not a long-term solution. To rewire the reward circuit, it's necessary to plan carefully for inducing the right amount of dopamine for each individual and to use techniques that trick the brain into maintaining motivation.
During my research, I discovered that simply abstaining from addictive behavior alone is not a long-term solution. To rewire the reward circuit, it's necessary to plan carefully for inducing the right amount of dopamine for each individual and to use techniques that trick the brain into maintaining motivation.
Your AI Therapists
Dopago provides 24/7 support, whether you want to chat casually about your day, engage in interactive CBT sessions, or even discuss your musical preferences.
Dopago provides 24/7 support, whether you want to chat casually about your day, engage in interactive CBT sessions, or even discuss your musical preferences.
Your AI Therapists
Track, Prevent, Conquer
Track, Prevent, Conquer
Track your dopamine level by logging your daily activities. Learn from your recent setbacks. Defeat your addiction.
Track your dopamine level by logging your daily activities. Learn from your recent setbacks. Defeat your addiction.
Gamify your journey
Gamify your journey
The more you engage with your therapist, accomplish your daily tasks and classes, and take quizzes, the greater the rewards you can earn.
The more you engage with your therapist, accomplish your daily tasks and classes, and take quizzes, the greater the rewards you can earn.
01. DISCOVER
01. DISCOVER
What should we focus on to help people recover from addiction?
Secondary Research
Secondary Research
Starting with white paper research, I began to understand the mechanism behind the addiction. Also, I stumbled upon a very interesting social trend that is worth looking to get good context and insights.
Starting with white paper research, I began to understand the mechanism behind the addiction. Also, I stumbled upon a very interesting social trend that is worth looking to get good context and insights.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
#1. Addiction and Dopamine
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. When a person engages in an activity that releases dopamine, such as using drugs or gambling, they may become addicted because the dopamine release reinforces the behavior. The brain becomes accustomed to the high levels of dopamine and may require more and more of the substance or activity to achieve the same level of pleasure. This can lead to compulsive behavior and addiction.
#2. Trend: Dopamine Fasting
As a result of growing public awareness of dopamine overload, the trend called 'dopamine fasting' has gone viral worldwide which is a practice that involves intentionally abstaining from activities that are prone to addiction, such as using social media, binge watching, or eating high-sugar foods, in an effort to reset the brain's reward system. It has appeared 3315% more on the search engine since the pandemic according to Google Trend.
#3. Controversy in the practice
As the profile of dopamine fasting has grown, though, so have the skeptics. While many detoxers have reported positive experience with it, significant number of people experienced disordered eating patterns and negative emotional states, such as anxiety or depression. Some researchers have been expressing concerns about its lack of scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of the practice.
"Okay, now I understand that dopamine is the key to addiction, and people are attempting to abstain from activities that trigger its release. Why is this trend so popular and controversial? Let's hear them out!"
"Okay, now I understand that dopamine is the key to addiction, and people are attempting to abstain from activities that trigger its release. Why is this trend so popular and controversial? Let's hear them out!"
Screener Survey
While looking at above results, I became curious about the factors that might contribute to the controversial opinions during the dopamine detox process. Firstly, I conducted screeners to gather general statistics and identify suitable interviewees.
While looking at above results, I became curious about the factors that might contribute to the controversial opinions during the dopamine detox process. Firstly, I conducted screeners to gather general statistics and identify suitable interviewees.
Respondents
22.4
AGE
72%
Addicted to certain categories
3.1
Severity
(out of 5)
Internet
Top category
61%
Tried dopamine fasting or similar kind
83%
Failed to get out of addiction
"It's concerning that many young people are struggling with moderate addiction to specific activities, and over 60% of them have attempted self-treatment without success. I'm curious about their reasons for self-guided therapy and the factors that contributed to their success or failure."
"It's concerning that many young people are struggling with moderate addiction to specific activities, and over 60% of them have attempted self-treatment without success. I'm curious about their reasons for self-guided therapy and the factors that contributed to their success or failure."
User Interview
Interviewees
Throughout the screener, I was able to select 7 interviewees who have tried either self-guided therapy or in-person therapy.
Throughout the screener, I was able to select 7 interviewees who have tried either self-guided therapy or in-person therapy.
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
Highlight
71% of Participants reported they've tried self-guided treatments through online resources when they first recognized their addictive behavior.
They thought they could treat their addiction on their own because the symptoms were mild when they first realized it.
Biggest deterring factor to try in-person treatments was time and cost of visits.
Some also felt repulsed and ashamed to explain their symptoms in-person.
While all participants reported temporary benefits during the fasting period at some points, 57% of them returned to the mild-severe addiction state.
In-person
Interactive communication
Emotional support
Easy to track addiction state
Time and cost of visits
felt repulsed and ashamed to explain symptoms
Hard to find right therapists
Not reachable outside of therapy time
Self-guided
Time & cost-efficient
Deeper understanding of oneself
Self-empowerment
Not suitable for severe addiction
Hard to find science-backed resources / treatments
Lack of motivation to keep going
Success factor
Plan their process for a long term
Solid understanding of how their addictive behaviors were formed
Replace their addictive behaviors with productive habits
Regular meditation / work out
Get rid of situations, items, or place that triggers their behavior.
Failure factor
Only tried temporary fasting
Superficial understanding of dopamine
Tried to abstain from all the addictive behavior at one time
Irregular bio-rythm
Lack of outdoor activity
"Recognizing one's addiction and seeking treatment before it reaches a severe state seem crucial. Unfortunately, ineffective self-guided treatments often worsen the symptoms, ultimately leading to in-person therapy with medication which costs more time and resources."
"Recognizing one's addiction and seeking treatment before it reaches a severe state seem crucial. Unfortunately, ineffective self-guided treatments often worsen the symptoms, ultimately leading to in-person therapy with medication which costs more time and resources."
Expert Interview
I thought making an app that affects people's mental health cannot be done without expert's verification. Therefore, I conducted a final round of interview with a neuroscientist from a university to obtain additional insights and scientific evidence behind the behavior observed from user interview.
I thought making an app that affects people's mental health cannot be done without expert's verification. Therefore, I conducted a final round of interview with a neuroscientist from a university to obtain additional insights and scientific evidence behind the behavior observed from user interview.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
#1. Misconception of public
The neuroscientist pointed out that people who failed at fasting might have taken the trend too literally and abstain from all pleasurable activities, including those that are necessary or beneficial for their overall well-being. This is probably why they experienced negative emotional states or craving. People can’t fast from a naturally occurring brain chemical. In fact, reducing access to harmful and addictive stimuli doesn’t actually decrease dopamine in the brain, though some people have taken dopamine fasting to unhealthy extremes as a result of this misconception.
#2. Dopamine deficiency
She also inform us the symptoms some our interviewees experienced are related to dopamine deficiency. Since they have addicted to dopamine-releasing activities, the brain’s set-point for pleasure changes. Now they need to keep doing those activities not to feel pleasure but just to feel normal. As soon as they stop, they experience the universal symptoms of withdrawal from any addictive substance known as craving.
#3. CBT based fasting
The expert suggested two CBT-based techniques for dopamine fasting: stimulus control and exposure and response prevention. In stimulus control, access to objects that are implicated in addictions is restricted either physically (i.e., removing phone from the room) or made impossible (i.e., blocked out by software, or if the user engages in an activity incompatible to the addictive behavior). In exposure and response prevention, the main goal is to expose oneself to the stimulus without engaging in the conditioned response. Instead, the focus is on adjusting the user's attitude and feelings until temptation from the stimuli could no longer force them away of their daily routine. In either case, the ultimate goal is to weaken the original conditioned association between the behavior and reward, also known as habituation. This reduces the impulsivity and allows the subject to regain flexibility of behaviors, therefore gaining control over the addiction.
"The public's misunderstanding of dopamine has led them to use scientifically unproven treatment methods, resulting in a state of dopamine deficiency. By using CBT treatment methods, it is possible to effectively regulate dopamine levels and recover from addiction in a healthy manner."
"The public's misunderstanding of dopamine has led them to use scientifically unproven treatment methods, resulting in a state of dopamine deficiency. By using CBT treatment methods, it is possible to effectively regulate dopamine levels and recover from addiction in a healthy manner."
Competitor Analysis
I started off by monitoring direct and indirect competitors that provide similar concepts to my product: treatment, motivation, and monitoring. By doing so, I was able to gather ideas and solutions for improving the user experience by implementing different features.
I started off by monitoring direct and indirect competitors that provide similar concepts to my product: treatment, motivation, and monitoring. By doing so, I was able to gather ideas and solutions for improving the user experience by implementing different features.
No community feature
Doctor appointment unavailable
Lack of follow-ups
CBT based treatment
Emotional Design (Therapeutic animations, motions, writings)
Some feel its overly gamified
not suitable for serious learners
The reward system (badges, xp, streak…)
Feedback from animation (not to get confused or get lost)
Painless account creation
No treatments provided
High cognitive load
Motivating quotes, challenges, etc
Online therapy
Active communities (get help 24/7)
Dated interface design
Onboarding takes forever
Long-term habit forming process
Accountability Buddy
Built and supported by experts
Prioritization Matrix
I used a 2 x 2 prioritization matrix to categorize the needs based on users' necessity and priority. Then, I decided on the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) features for the product.
I used a 2 x 2 prioritization matrix to categorize the needs based on users' necessity and priority. Then, I decided on the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) features for the product.
Must Have
Necessary for the product
Computer based, interactive CBT
Emotional, playful design
Supportive communities
Comprehensive track dashboard
Gamify for keeping up motivation
Should Have
Significant in the long run
Interactive courses / lessons
Personalized recommendation of treatments
24/7 support
Expert's coach
Could Have
Slightly increase product's worth
Journey
Online therapy
Challenge feature
Accountability buddy
Won't Have
Can be ignored for now
Education Videos
Article search
Research Synthesis
After having done the user and desk research, I synthesized the data and insights to find seven pain points that are crucial for users to success.
After having done the user and desk research, I synthesized the data and insights to find seven pain points that are crucial for users to success.
PAIN POINTS
Staying motivated
Interactive communication
Not professionally proven methods
Difficult to understand complicated mechanism of addiction
Lack of active communities / emotional support
Time & Cost of in-person therapy
Subject to fall in dopamine deficiency
Can't visually track their addiction state
Don't know how to replace bad habits with productive routines
Negative emotional state
Dopamine imbalance
In-person therapy appointment
Based on the user pain points and the finding from the research, I narrowed them down to the critical criteria I need to focus on.
Based on the user pain points and the finding from the research, I narrowed them down to the critical criteria I need to focus on.
KEY INSIGHTS
Effective Treatment
Users seek support from scientifically proven methods that are both time and cost-effective. Users also want to reach out when they feel they need help.
Users seek support from scientifically proven methods that are both time and cost-effective. Users also want to reach out when they feel they need help.
To address our users' needs, we will implement AI-powered therapists developed by experts, offering round-the-clock interactive communication and emotional support.
To address our users' needs, we will implement AI-powered therapists developed by experts, offering round-the-clock interactive communication and emotional support.
Interactive Communication
A limitation of self-guided therapy is that it often lacks two-way communication, which can result in people feeling isolated and demotivated.
A limitation of self-guided therapy is that it often lacks two-way communication, which can result in people feeling isolated and demotivated.
To address our users' needs, we will offer interactive therapy sessions and courses, supportive online communities, and personalized one-on-one therapy sessions for individuals struggling with more severe addiction.
To address our users' needs, we will offer interactive therapy sessions and courses, supportive online communities, and personalized one-on-one therapy sessions for individuals struggling with more severe addiction.
Right Amount of Dopamine
Inducing right amount of dopamine is crucial to keep one motivated and doesn't fall into negative emotional states.
Inducing right amount of dopamine is crucial to keep one motivated and doesn't fall into negative emotional states.
To address our users' needs, we will incorporate gamification, dopamine level tracking, and a task management system, creating a positive feedback loop through a steady flow of dopamine.
To address our users' needs, we will incorporate gamification, dopamine level tracking, and a task management system, creating a positive feedback loop through a steady flow of dopamine.
02. EMPATHIZE
Understanding users' needs and pain points
User Persona & Journey Map
Based on the research findings, I have prioritized the MZ generation who exhibit addiction to specific categories as our primary target audience.
Based on the research findings, I have prioritized the MZ generation who exhibit addiction to specific categories as our primary target audience.
How might we motivate people to stay on track DURING their recovery process?
How might we motivate people to stay on track DURING their recovery process?
How might we motivate people to stay on track DURING their recovery process?
03. IDEATE
Helping users achieve their goal easily.
Crazy 8s
After having done the research and narrowing down to a few MVPs, I started sketching ideas on a paper divided by 8 containers. Allocating one minute per container, I could come up with various ideas and solutions for my product.
After having done the research and narrowing down to a few MVPs, I started sketching ideas on a paper divided by 8 containers. Allocating one minute per container, I could come up with various ideas and solutions for my product.
Hybrid Card Sorting
Unmoderated hybrid card sorting was conducted to create an Information Architecture that meets user expectations.
Unmoderated hybrid card sorting was conducted to create an Information Architecture that meets user expectations.
Participants
Information Architecture
Based on the previous hybrid card sorting, I created an Information Architecture that meets user expectations.
Based on the previous hybrid card sorting, I created an Information Architecture that meets user expectations.
04. PROTOTYPE
Bringing values to the users
Lo-Fi Wireframing
I produced wireframes for multiple design variations for testing and feedback.
I produced wireframes for multiple design variations for testing and feedback.
Visual Style
I created a visual identity that fits my product's identity
I created a visual identity that fits my product's identity
Design System
I implemented the design system using the Atomic Design methodology. To start, I built a catalog of tokens such as patterns, colors, text styles, icons, and grid systems. This provided me with a set of design guidelines that promote a consistent design language
I implemented the design system using the Atomic Design methodology. To start, I built a catalog of tokens such as patterns, colors, text styles, icons, and grid systems. This provided me with a set of design guidelines that promote a consistent design language
Usability Testing
I conducted a usability test with five users in my target demographic using the prototype to see how user friendly the service is.
I conducted a usability test with five users in my target demographic using the prototype to see how user friendly the service is.
PAIN POINTS
"Like" button in doctor profile is hard to reach.
"Like" button in doctor profile is hard to reach.
Alert section in track is not visually highlighting.
Alert section in track is not visually highlighting.
"See all" feature not align with other pages in doctor's post screen.
"See all" feature not align with other pages in doctor's post screen.
POSITIVE FEEDBACK
Video chat feature with AI Therapist looks excellent example to apply NLP tech.
Video chat feature with AI Therapist looks excellent example to apply NLP tech.
Prevent setback by expected trigger trend is a brilliant idea.
Prevent setback by expected trigger trend is a brilliant idea.
The idea that users can earn rewards by positive interaction and customize their cute AIs are perfect for those dopamine burst loop.
The idea that users can earn rewards by positive interaction and customize their cute AIs are perfect for those dopamine burst loop.
Implementing Feedback
Before
After
Put the "like" button where comfort reachability can be achieved.
Put the "like" button where comfort reachability can be achieved.
Gave the setback alert tab more contrast for visually alarming.
Gave the setback alert tab more contrast for visually alarming.
Positioned "see all" text to the top right to align with my design system.
Positioned "see all" text to the top right to align with my design system.
High Fidelity Design
Interactive Communication
The key to making the AI treatment effective is by creating an interactive experience where the AI can respond directly to you. To make it even more engaging, consider hopping on a video chat with an AI therapist – it's the next best thing to having them right there with you!
The key to making the AI treatment effective is by creating an interactive experience where the AI can respond directly to you. To make it even more engaging, consider hopping on a video chat with an AI therapist – it's the next best thing to having them right there with you!
Real-Time Design
Users can now enjoy a more immersive therapy experience with the real-time design of the therapy space. The color scheme seamlessly transitions throughout the day, mimicking the natural beauty of a sunrise and sunset. This real-time design helps create a more in-person feel, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in the therapeutic experience.
Users can now enjoy a more immersive therapy experience with the real-time design of the therapy space. The color scheme seamlessly transitions throughout the day, mimicking the natural beauty of a sunrise and sunset. This real-time design helps create a more in-person feel, allowing users to fully immerse themselves in the therapeutic experience.
Get Experts' Advice
Accessing expert articles and seeking medical advice has never been easier. Whether you're simply curious about a certain topic or have concerns about your symptoms, you can easily connect with experts through online chats or by scheduling virtual appointments.
Accessing expert articles and seeking medical advice has never been easier. Whether you're simply curious about a certain topic or have concerns about your symptoms, you can easily connect with experts through online chats or by scheduling virtual appointments.
Track Every Aspects
Our platform makes it a breeze for users to track whatever matters most to them. Simply prioritize your goals and tailor your tracking experience using our visually stunning infographics. Our intuitive system allows you to effortlessly monitor your progress, giving you a clear understanding of how far you've come and how much further you need to go.
Our platform makes it a breeze for users to track whatever matters most to them. Simply prioritize your goals and tailor your tracking experience using our visually stunning infographics. Our intuitive system allows you to effortlessly monitor your progress, giving you a clear understanding of how far you've come and how much further you need to go.
05. REFLECTION
How can I improve the service?
What I Learned
#1. Research, research, research
Some of my colleagues said I should spend less time in the research process, but honestly, I recognized the more I put effort in research, the better quality could be achieved. I like how my design was able to include much more in-depth understanding of users' pain points that were key to defining the problem scope.
Some of my colleagues said I should spend less time in the research process, but honestly, I recognized the more I put effort in research, the better quality could be achieved. I like how my design was able to include much more in-depth understanding of users' pain points that were key to defining the problem scope.
#2. Prioritize target audience
When I first design the app, I was distracted by too much information provided by wide range of voices. Therefore, I tried to satisfy all the users' needs and that's the point I lost to make decisions. I learned prioritizing the most concerned and overlapped problem is crucial to take further steps in design process.
When I first design the app, I was distracted by too much information provided by wide range of voices. Therefore, I tried to satisfy all the users' needs and that's the point I lost to make decisions. I learned prioritizing the most concerned and overlapped problem is crucial to take further steps in design process.
#3. Testing early and often
It would've taken much longer and subjected me to fall in bias if I struggled to make decisions by myself. Luckily, I was able to test my deliverables with wonderful designers and got objective feedbacks that kept me on track.
It would've taken much longer and subjected me to fall in bias if I struggled to make decisions by myself. Luckily, I was able to test my deliverables with wonderful designers and got objective feedbacks that kept me on track.
Next Step
#1. Enhance rewards system
In the app, users can earn gems as a reward and spend them to customize their characters to keep them motivated. This reward system was built for my target audience, the millennials. However, I came to realize that it may not satisfy wider user groups. In this case, I believe a couple of reward options such as growing plants or building a farm would provide more therapeutic effects for users.
In the app, users can earn gems as a reward and spend them to customize their characters to keep them motivated. This reward system was built for my target audience, the millennials. However, I came to realize that it may not satisfy wider user groups. In this case, I believe a couple of reward options such as growing plants or building a farm would provide more therapeutic effects for users.
#2. Extend trackability with wearable devices
Currently, the app can track and predict behavior only if users manually enter their activities. However, considering that some users do not have enough natural willpower to do so, it may not be the best option. It would be powerful if the app could detect the user's behavior with the motion sensor of the wearable devices and alarm the user who is about to have a setback.
Currently, the app can track and predict behavior only if users manually enter their activities. However, considering that some users do not have enough natural willpower to do so, it may not be the best option. It would be powerful if the app could detect the user's behavior with the motion sensor of the wearable devices and alarm the user who is about to have a setback.
Letting you in.
