MindWise

The challenge

Understanding loneliness beyond simply being alone

Unwanted loneliness is the perception that our interpersonal relationships are insufficient, or lack the quality and intensity we would like. The project began by exploring that gap through the lens of friendships and interpersonal connection.

The initial hypothesis focused on a lack of connection with oneself: perhaps people experiencing unwanted loneliness could not identify the tools they needed to manage it. Research would later challenge and reshape that assumption.

How might we help young adults experiencing unwanted loneliness become more aware of their mental health so they can confront it?

Research design

Diverging widely, then grounding the real problem

I used the Double Diamond framework across discovery, definition, development, and delivery. Interviews and surveys gathered qualitative and comparable evidence, while a stakeholder map exposed the network of people and services involved when someone experiences loneliness.

To experience spontaneous social connection firsthand, I also entered Omegle and asked strangers what they would do to cope with loneliness. Suggestions such as walking, reading, and spending intentional time alone revealed that even very brief exchanges could extend beyond a transactional question.

Synthesis

The first hypothesis had to be left behind

Early findings surfaced many dimensions of unwanted loneliness, but did not yet reveal which part of interpersonal relationships the solution should address. The “lack of connection with oneself” hypothesis became too broad to support confident iteration.

A pivotal user interview helped contrast the accumulated evidence and reframed the opportunity around mental-health awareness: helping young adults recognize what they feel, understand available support, and take small, practical steps.

Ideation & prototyping

A reflective companion that turns awareness into action

After grounding the challenge with a “How might we” statement, I moved into ideation using Crazy 8s and individual brainstorming. The concept evolved into a digital journal and AI chatbot that helps users connect with themselves and others through emotional check-ins, guided conversations, tailored activities, and wellbeing recommendations.

It is like a digital diary that helps you connect with yourself and others based on your experiences, recommending ways to explore the areas that support better mental health.

Reflections

Designing for mental health requires care, discipline, and clear boundaries

Addressing unwanted loneliness means rethinking how people relate after the pandemic and acknowledging the external factors behind feeling alone. A product can create space for reflection and illuminate possible next steps, but it must never obscure when professional help is more appropriate.

The strongest future opportunity lies in self-agency: helping people understand their patterns, take responsibility for manageable decisions, and see progress without turning the product into a substitute for human or clinical support.