Austin Marandos
The Challenge:
Anxiety and panic disorder is a condition that affects millions of people around the world. Anxiety is the most common mental health condition in Australia (my country of origin) affecting on average 1 in 4 people in Australia alone. (Australian Bureau of statistics).
One of the major problems that anxiety and panic attack sufferers experience is difficulty in identifying the symptoms of a panic attack. Thus, being unable to identify and consequently ignoring the symptoms of a panic attack sufferers get trapped in an anxiety loop which eventually leads to a full-blown panic attack. Whilst experiencing a panic attack sufferers tend to forget their panic coping techniques, which leads to further anxiety and panic.
How the project will solve the problem:
In-order to combat this cycle, anxiety and panic sufferers must be made aware of their symptoms before the onslaught of a panic attack. Further, during the panic attack itself sufferers must be reminded of their coping strategies and techniques in-order to efficiently and swiftly deal with their panic. The solution needs to be discrete and not draw too much attention to the user as this will create further anxiety.
The minder watch provides the panic sufferer with medically approved psychological coping strategies and breathing techniques that will greatly improve the user's quality of life ensuring that they feel safe and well prepared for a possible panic attack.
How the project might be world changing:
Currently, anxiety and panic disorder sufferers must rely solely on the skills that they have learnt during therapy or from online medical resources. During a panic attack these skills are usually forgotten and in most cases sufferers find it hard to remember their learnt techniques. The minder watch will change this. Instead of having to rely on memory, my device will act as a 'psychologist on the wrist,' prompting the anxious user and providing them with a set of instructions on how best to deal with their anxiety. The minder watch will also recognise the symptoms of a panic attack, warning the user before the onslaught of a major panic attack.
Video:
Flow chart:
This flow chart visualizes the basic function of the watch, and how the anxiety coping strategies will aid the user during a panic attack.
Anxiety techniques:
I programmed 4 different anti-anxiety techniques onto the minder smart watch. If the user finds that one technique is not working they can simply change to the next one until panic is completely dissipated. (note: each of these techniques are explained in further detail in the project log section).
The majority of these techniques utilise 'Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)' which is an internationally recognised anti-anxiety thearpy. CBT hypothesises that how you think affects how you feel, and that your emotions influence your behaviour. Therefore by thinking realistic, helpful thoughts anxiety can be lowered.
Technique 1: Deep breathing exercise
One of the most prominent symptoms of panic is hyperventilation which causes feelings of dizziness, light-headedness, poor concentration and shaking. To combat this, deep breathing exercises can be used to lower the symptoms of panic and restore a normal breathing rhythm. If a panic sufferer begins to use slow breathing as soon as they notice a panic attack then it will be most effective. Deep breathing can be performed in various different ways however it follows the common structure;
Technique 2: Body scan
The 'body scan' technique guides the user to ‘scan’ their body, making them focus on themselves rather than their thoughts. It will help the user block out their worrying thoughts and force them to be in the ‘here...
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3. Processor: For the main arduino board I used the Qduino mini V2 from Sparkfun. This board has a built in charging capability and also is very small allowing me to easily fit it into the 3D printed case. (
4. Battery: I used a 3.7V 500 mah Lipo battery from Adafruit to power the entire watch. (
Pato Montalvo
Victor Dedios
Mike Kushnerik
matt oppenheim
Wow! such a great innovation i is. After reading the features and qualities of this watch. I can't wait to buy it. As in this stressful world, I hope that this kind of watches might help us in some positive regard and students can visit at https://www.nicereply.com/blog/personally-in-customer-service/ to get best customer service. So be ready to buy it and share the views with others.