Research into mental health highlights the lack of preventative measures available, with most solutions aiming at those already experiencing problems. With 50% of common mental health disorders starting before the age 14, building simple, everyday routines/habits that can support resilient mental well-being early, before the development of common mental disorders is not only beneficial but crucial.
Examining the impact of light on a child’s well-being, I explored the concept of combining a light therapy lamp with a child’s toy to create an interactive companion. Learning predominately through play, toys often reinforce/teach routines for a child to mirror in order to help adopt certain behaviours or habits. Expanding on this concept, I experimented with different potential light shapes, focusing on animals that are associated with light or morning/evenings to further cement the association with routine.
Initial idea sketches
Further idea development
Having settled on an owl for the design, I created a prototype in clay which I then refined and created in 3D.
A multi-functional bedside light therapy lamp designed as a bedtime companion for children aiming to take preventative measures against common mental health issues such as anxiety and depression before they arise by adopting mental well-being routines into their daily habits. The lamp contains a 10,000 lux bulb to simulate the natural light levels in the UK and diffuses fragrance to soothe and calm through the holes in its chest.
Based on the concept of a virtual pet, the lamp combines the digital and physical worlds to get the child to ‘look after’ their new pet and its needs (such as refilling the fragrance diffuser by ‘feeding’ them). Through the buttons on the base or in app, the child is guided to follow their pet’s example. The app also allows the child interact with ‘their companion’ (eg. answering questions in ‘play’ time or speaking into the microphone when saying affirmations.)
