Problem

In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experiences a mental health or addiction problem

That means that 20% of this country experiences these issues yearly

7,000,000 Canadians each year

Project Statement

I am designing an exhibit that will allow Canadians 18 years of age and up to interact with the information, issues and scenarios related to the stigma of mental health issues. While walking through a visual and text driven designed space in a predetermined pattern, viewers will learn about people affected by these health issues, and how they can help end the stigma of these illnesses. After understanding the problems and negativity sufferers face, viewers will be challenged to interact with visuals that will change their behaviours and be faced with a call to action to do something in light of what they’ve learned.

Objectives

The purpose of this project is to educate my users on mental health and illness in Canada and change the initial views most people have around the subject.

I want this project to promote the idea of acceptance and understanding towards these groups of people and change the words we use to talk about/talk to people who experience these issues.

The communication objectives for this project is that we are all equal, and overall that someone’s mental health or mental illness does not define them.

The primary takeaway message is that having anxiety and (or) depression does not define anyone. People who experience these issues are just like anyone else and should not feel ashamed or embarrassed to come forward with them in search of help or support.

The secondary message is that we need to be responsible for the words we use and change the conversation on mental illnesses.

During the experience of this project, I want my users to be shocked by the phrases and words they see. I want them to take a step back and look within themselves and their own lives and see how they contribute to this stigma.

After the project, I want people to be able to talk about anxiety and depression and not feel ashamed or embarrassed to bring these conversations forward. I want them to realize how much there is to know about the topic, and even explore these issues further in their own time so that they can be prepared and have the tools necessary if someone they know and love is affected.

Deliverables

Exhibition Poster Set: 6 variations

Exhibition Take Away Card: 1 variation

Exhibition Advertising Posters: 2 variations

Sticker Set: 6 variations (36 total)

Twitter Page

Mockup/Blueprint Booklet

Solutions

1) Creating an environment where people are exposed to harmful sayings

2) Allowing them to learn about what is right and wrong

3) Giving them a chance to engage on social media about their experience

Result

We are all AWARE of mental health & illness

What we need is SELF AWARENESS

This project creates a CALL TO ACTION