Hypothesis

Implementing a comprehensive digital wellness platform on the University of Michigan campus that integrates real-time tracking of physical activity, nutrition, mental health, and sleep patterns, along with personalized health recommendations and reminders, will lead to a significant increase in healthy behaviours among students. Specifically, students who actively use the wellness app will engage in 20% more frequent physical activity, make healthier food choices, and exhibit improved mental well-being compared to those who do not use the app, within the span of one academic semester.

• Why

Enhancing Accessibility to Health Resources:

• A digital health platform centralizes health resources, making it easier for students to access information and services related to physical fitness, nutrition, and mental health. This is especially crucial in a campus environment where students may have limited time and may feel overwhelmed. Easy access helps reduce barriers to seeking help and encourages proactive health management.

Promoting Healthy Behavior Change:

• Digital health platforms can leverage technology to provide personalized nudges and reminders, facilitating positive behavior changes. By tracking individual health data, the platform can offer tailored recommendations that encourage students to engage in physical activity, make healthier food choices, and prioritize mental well-being, ultimately fostering a culture of health on campus.

Addressing Mental Health Challenges:

• With rising mental health concerns among college students, integrating digital health solutions can offer immediate support and resources. Features such as mindfulness exercises, stress management tools, and access to counseling services can help students manage their mental health effectively. The platform can provide anonymity and convenience, encouraging more students to seek help and reducing stigma associated with mental health issues.

How

Conducting Needs Assessments and User Research:

• Begin by gathering data on student health needs, preferences, and technology usage through surveys, focus groups, and interviews. Understanding the specific health challenges faced by the student population will guide the design and features of the platform, ensuring that it meets their needs effectively.

Collaboration with Health Services and Stakeholders:

• Partner with campus health services, counselling centers, and student organizations to ensure the platform aligns with existing health resources and initiatives. This collaboration can enhance the credibility of the platform and facilitate the integration of a comprehensive range of services, including nutrition counselling, mental health support, and fitness programs.

Implementing a User-Centric Design and Continuous Feedback Loop:

• Focus on creating an intuitive, user-friendly interface that encourages engagement and regular use. Incorporate gamification elements to boost motivation. Additionally, establish a continuous feedback loop where users can provide input on their experiences and suggest improvements, allowing for ongoing updates and enhancements to meet changing needs over time.

What

Digital health integration is the process of incorporating technology-based solutions, such as mobile apps and online platforms, into health and wellness initiatives to enhance access to resources, promote healthy behaviors, and improve overall health outcomes among users, particularly in a campus setting.

So What

Digital health integration will provide users with personalized tools and resources to actively manage their health and wellness, encouraging healthier lifestyle choices and enhancing overall well-being through increased accessibility, engagement, and support.