PHP Connect
PHP Connect is a client-directed, fully functional UX prototype that better connects CU Boulder student-athletes to mental health services.
According to the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine, over 35% of elite athletes experience a mental health crisis, which can present as stress, eating disorders, burnout, or depression and anxiety.
Problem
CU student-athletes have a plethora of mental health resources available to them but very few actually take advantage of all that is offered. Currently, student-athletes must call or physically go into the Psychological Health and Performance (PHP) office to make an appointment, deterring many students from utilizing these services.
Solution
To combat this noticeable disconnect, we created PHP Connect: a mobile application that allows student-athletes to schedule and manage upcoming appointments, message with PHP staff, and access other resources that the PHP office offers to student-athletes.
We worked directly with the Psychological Health and Performance (PHP) office, as well as current CU student-athletes, to understand client and user needs. We then implemented solutions that align with current operational processes and overall improve the ease and efficiency of the interaction between PHP and student-athletes.
This application was fully-funded by CU Athletics and implemented into the mandatory suite of apps CU student-athletes are required to download, with an active user base of over 500 student-athletes.
Client
PHP is a 24/7 365 support resource for all CU student-athletes. Whether that means immediate help, recurring sessions, group workshops, a drop-by, or looking for sports performance help, PHP helps student-athletes in whatever realm they may need support.
Client Needs and Design Decisions
Process
User Interviews and Surveys
Gauged what student-athletes liked and disliked about the current PHP scheduling system.
We discovered that CU student-athletes prioritized:
Simplicity and ease of navigation
Ability to easily schedule appointments
Access to resources provided by PHP
Notifications about action items
Ways to help manage stress and anxiety
Client Relationship
Weekly meetings with PHP staff to understand their needs and current methods of operation. As well as consistent digital correspondence, to ensure our design solutions aligned with their operational capabilities and current processes.
Design
Utilizing Figma, we designed wireframes at low, mid, and high fidelity levels, before turning our design into a fully functional prototype. At each fidelity level, as well as the functional prototype, we conducted usability tests with current CU student-athletes.
Tested with a consistent group of 5 student-athletes, who saw the progression of the app from start to finish
Tested with a new user group of an additional 5 student-athletes at each fidelity level, to ensure the app was efficient and easy to use for first-time users
Prototype
Statement of Importance
As high-level competitive athletes, we understand firsthand the critical importance of mental health in achieving peak performance. According to a survey conducted by the NCAA, about 30% of student-athletes stated that they had experienced challenges related to mental health difficulties. As CU student-athletes, we believe it's imperative that we have easy and efficient access to the resources available to support our mental health. By prioritizing and advocating for mental health resources, we can not only enhance our own performance but also give back to the CU community, leaving a lasting positive impact on future generations of athletes.
Impact
The impact of prioritizing access to mental health resources for high-level competitive athletes, CU Student Athletes, will create athletes that are better equipped to manage stress, anxiety, and pressure, leading to improved focus, decision-making, and overall performance in their respective sports and overall well-being.
By openly discussing and advocating for mental health resources, athletes help reduce the stigma associated with seeking help for mental health issues and set a positive example for their peers, coaches, and the broader community. This creates a more supportive and understanding environment for all college students to address their mental health needs without fear of judgment or discrimination. Future generations of CU student-athletes will benefit from improved access to mental health services, leading to healthier, happier, and more successful individuals both on and off the field.
