The project is related to issue that deeply impacts young adults in our digital age, loneliness, and also connects to people’s mental health such as empty, anxiety, insomnia, and led to more physical problems. The negative effects of social media and internet have far outweighed its benefits. Behind addiction, users are influenced by the potential comparisons on social media such as whose life is richer, and suffering information overload. This also leads to the possibility that those affected users may need to face mental health challenges.
Target Audience
The target audience is young adult from age 18-22. People at this age are characterized by change and exploration, cause they’re just dependent from family, having change in mentality, and Gen-z is causing information overload.
Statistics
- 40% of Americans from 18 to 22 years old (8,724,400 people) self- reported being addicted to social media.
- 61% of younger people from 18 to 22 in the U.S. (13,304,711 people) say they are chronically lonely.
- 31% of them (4,100,000 people) felt anxiety when separated from their phone. 60% (7,900,000 people) felt stressed if their phone was off or out of reach.
Problem Statements
- Young adults spend too much time using their phones and social medias, but still feel unsatisfied.
- Electronic devices cause distraction, and making users unable to concentrate.
- People rely on phones to build connections with others.
- Lack of alternatives to activities or experiences on phones.
- Unconscious habit loop formed by regularly using phones.
Persona
Existing Solutions
Prototypes
Functions Display
Hunter’s Exploration
Mood Recorder
Offline Gathering
Additional Function: Disconnecting
Positive Validates From Potential Users
Business Model
- D2C: Includes a basic subscription model for premium features and the sale of materials on the platform.
- B2B2C: We’ll partner with gyms, attractions, and communities, offering discounts to users and help each other to raise exposure and revenue. This strategy enhances the user experience while building strong partnerships.
Meet the Founder
My name is Lynn, the founder of TrueLink. Why am I the right person for solving the digital-caused loneliness problem?
Firstly, my own struggles with loneliness and digital overload excite my drive to find the solutions. As an IXD design student studying in CCA, I focus on using my skills to create user-centered designs that bridge technology and human well-being. In addition, I combined academic insights with user feedback to build an empathetic, evidence-based solution.
Conclusion
If TrueLink becomes successful, users will reclaim their mental well-being, reduce anxiety and have a healthier mind. Connections between people might be much more strong and meaningful. And all the social tech will shift focus from mindless engagement to intentional connection and personal growth.
Loneliness in the digital age is a pressing issue, but we have the tools and vision to address it. TrueLink not only reduces loneliness but also encourages young adults to engage with the real world.
