Virtual assistant tool launched to help with anxiety

A mental health tool for virtual assistants has been launched to help people dealing with anxiety.

Mindscape, which has been developed in consultation with mental health charity Mind, is designed as a voice-based frontline support tool for individuals experiencing a panic attack.

Launched for both Amazon Alexa and Google Home, the tool talks users through breathing exercises to relax them, before asking a series of questions relating to their emotional state.

Mindscape offers practical tips as well as presenting simple pathways to help the user.

The idea for Mindscape was conceived and funded by creative agency, CULT.

Cat Turner, Mindscape co-founder and chief creative officer of CULT, said: “I was aware throughout my personal and professional life that many people were experiencing mental health issues, and I was witnessing the catastrophic effect that this had on their lives. It’s debilitating and with no clear route out, and it leaves many people feeling helpless and alone,

“So often technology is criticised for its negative impact on our wellbeing. However as creatives, we feel technology can be used as a force for good.”

The app was made in collaboration with music agency MassiveMusic and the tech development company Voxly Digital, using research and insights collated with Mind in Haringey, London

Lynette Charles, CEO of Mind in Haringey, said; “Mind in Haringey is delighted to have been working with Cult to develop Mindscape. We must ensure that we continue to raise awareness within our the communities.

“Mental Health is everyone’s business and we need to all reach out to our family, friends and colleagues. Around one in four of us will face a mental health problem every year, which makes apps like Mindscape so important.”

In February 2018, a wellbeing app aimed at teenagers was launched across South Yorkshire.