Plataforma Nise: o design como ferramenta de auxílio à depressão feminina nas universidades

Abstract

This paper’s aims is to understand the relationship between depression and gender, and how design can act directly and positively, through social innovation, in issues related to mental health within the university. We began our studies through the conceptualization of depression and its impact worldwide, in order to then understand how the disease affects university spaces, paying close attention, as a result, to the Federal University of Ceará. Furthermore, the social role of women was put into context whilst also examining the relationship between gender and depression. After establishing this foundation, the social role of design was analyzed in broad terms, where we sought to relate it to the concept of social innovation. Afterwards, an analysis of similar projects was carried out, where we looked at design projects in several fields which have had an impact on mental health. Finally, we defined the project guidelines using the hybrid methodology of Munari (2000) and Garrett (2011), where we managed to develop a project that encompassed one of the needs of university women with depression. At the same time, we present the design process and my response to this situation, through the use of a platform - a safe space. In the end, we have the final images with the website interface, designed to offer the students support in their moment of need.