To better understand the needs and expectations of our target users, I conducted several 1:1 user interviews with individuals who have experienced mental health challenges.
Question: What are your daily work routines and habits? How do you usually cope with stress or anxiety during your workday?
User 1: I work as a software engineer, and my daily routine involves long hours of sitting in front of a computer. When I feel stressed or anxious, I usually take short breaks to stretch and walk around. Sometimes, I listen to calming music or use relaxation techniques to help me unwind.
User 2: As a teacher, my daily work involves managing a classroom and preparing lessons. To cope with stress, I take a few minutes between classes to practice deep breathing exercises. I also find it helpful to discuss my concerns with colleagues during lunch breaks.
User 3: I work in customer service, which can be quite demanding. To manage stress, I engage in regular physical exercise before or after work. I find that it helps me release tension and boosts my mood.
User 4: I'm a Doctor, Practicing at a government hospital and my work involves long shifts and dealing with patients' emotions. During my breaks, I enjoy reading uplifting books or engaging in hobbies like watching movies to relax my mind and distract myself from work-related stress.
User 5: I'm a freelancer, and my work often involves high-pressure situations and deadlines and last minute changes to meet client requirements. To cope with stress, I practice mindfulness meditation during my breaks. It helps me clear my mind and approach my work with a calmer perspective.
Question: How would you describe your eating habits during times of stress or anxiety? Do you notice any patterns?
User 1: When I'm stressed, I tend to indulge in comfort foods like ice cream or pizza. I find that eating these foods temporarily makes me feel better, but I know it's not a healthy long-term coping strategy.
User 2: I have a habit of snacking on unhealthy foods when I'm anxious. It's like a mindless way to distract myself from my worries. I often reach for chips or cookies, but I'm trying to replace them with healthier alternatives like fruits and nuts.
User 3: I have a habit of overeating when I'm feeling overwhelmed. I turn to food as a source of comfort, and it provides temporary relief. However, I'm actively working on finding healthier coping mechanisms to manage my emotions.
User 4: I have a tendency to skip meals when I'm stressed or anxious. I lose my appetite and find it difficult to focus on eating. It's something I'm aware of and trying to address by planning nutritious meals in advance.
User 5: During times of stress or anxiety, I often crave sugary or caffeinated drinks like soda or coffee. I know they're not the best choices, but they give me a temporary energy boost and help me feel more alert.
Question: How do you prioritize sleep in your daily routine? Do you have any strategies to ensure a good night's rest?