In a groundbreaking initiative, Cardiff Youth Service has begun testing an augmented reality (AR) app designed to help teenagers manage anxiety and social isolation. The app, which integrates gaming technology, allows users to create and interact with digital flowers in their physical environment, promoting emotional expression and social connection among young people.
Key Takeaways
- The AR app is being piloted in schools in Cardiff and Swansea.
- Initial findings indicate a significant reduction in anxiety levels among users.
- The app encourages social interaction and emotional expression through creative play.
- Experts believe this technology could help improve school attendance for anxious students.
The Development of the AR App
The AR therapy app was developed by counselor Angela Mcmillan, who recognized the need for innovative solutions to support young people struggling with anxiety and school attendance. Drawing inspiration from her sessions with teens in the South Wales valleys, Mcmillan aimed to create a tool that would allow users to engage with their emotions in a non-threatening way.
"I’m really curious as to how we can use technology for good," Mcmillan stated. The app encourages users to design a flower, select its growth conditions, and visualize it in their surroundings, fostering a sense of creativity and control.
Positive Feedback from Users
The app has already garnered positive responses from its initial testers. Lili, a 16-year-old participant, shared her experience:
"It’s easy to use because you can separate it from yourself. It’s easier to look at your emotions from an outside perspective. I think it could be helpful for a lot of people."
Fifteen-year-old Jonas added, "It’s creative and I’ve never seen something like this before. The thoughts of the day’s experiences are going through my mind as I’m choosing the different things."
Impact on Mental Health
Initial results from the AR app indicate a significant reduction in anxiety levels among participants. Mcmillan noted that the app not only helps users express their feelings but also encourages them to interact with peers in a playful manner, which is crucial for child development.
The app is particularly beneficial for neurodivergent individuals, providing them with a comfortable medium to communicate their emotions. Mcmillan emphasized the importance of fostering a sense of belonging, stating, "If we feel a sense of belonging, that improves our wellbeing and the way we want to interact with the world."
Addressing School Attendance Issues
The Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Rocio Cifuentes, highlighted the ongoing challenges of school attendance, particularly since the pandemic. With the number of children missing more than 10% of their schooling having doubled, Cifuentes stressed the importance of effective interventions that address emotional health and wellbeing.
"School anxiety is common, and it’s crucial to consider any evidence-based intervention that shows effectiveness," she remarked. The AR app represents a promising step toward utilizing technology to support young people’s mental health and encourage school attendance.
Conclusion
As the AR app prepares for further pilots in schools across Cardiff and Swansea, there is hope that this innovative approach will not only alleviate anxiety but also foster a supportive community among young people. By integrating technology into mental health interventions, Cardiff Youth Service is paving the way for a new era of emotional support for teenagers.
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