Sample project proposal for software engineering lab, AI-Powered Mental Health Support Chatbot


 1. Title Page

Project Title: AI-Powered Mental Health Support Chatbot

Team Members:

            a)

            b)

            c)

            d)

Course: Software Engineering Lab

Date: January, 2025

2. Abstract/Executive Summary

This project proposes the development of an AI-powered chatbot to provide mental health support. The system will use natural language processing (NLP) to understand users’ concerns and provide empathetic, research-backed responses. It includes a mood tracker, daily affirmations, and recommendations for professional resources if needed. This chatbot aims to make mental health support accessible, private, and stigma-free.

3. Introduction

Background:

Mental health is a growing concern globally, with limited access to affordable and timely support. Many individuals feel reluctant to seek professional help due to stigma or lack of resources.

Relevance:

Technology can bridge the gap by providing an accessible, private, and always-available solution to users who need support.

Target Audience:

·         Students and young professionals

·         Individuals with mild to moderate mental health concerns

4. Problem Statement

What is the problem?

Mental health support is often expensive, inaccessible, or stigmatized, leaving many without the help they need.

Why does it matter?

Unaddressed mental health issues can lead to severe consequences, such as decreased productivity, strained relationships, and poor quality of life.

 

Who is affected?

Individuals facing mental health challenges but lacking resources or motivation to seek traditional help.

5. Objectives and Scope

Objectives:

Develop a chatbot that can respond empathetically to users’ mental health queries.

Incorporate a mood-tracking feature to monitor user emotions over time.

Provide scientifically-backed coping strategies and resources.

Scope:

Included: Chatbot interface, mood tracker, data encryption for user privacy.

Excluded: Professional diagnosis or therapy sessions.

6. Methodology/Approach

Technology Stack:

·         Frontend: React.js

·         Backend: Python (Flask)

·         AI/NLP: OpenAI GPT API or Hugging Face Transformers

·         Database: Firebase (real-time database)

·         Deployment: Google Cloud

Development Steps:

·         Requirement Analysis: Collect requirements through research and stakeholder interviews.

·         Design: Create UI mockups and chatbot architecture.

Development:

·         Implement chatbot logic using NLP.

·         Develop frontend for user interaction.

·         Integrate mood tracker and database.

Testing: Perform usability and functional testing with a focus group.

Deployment: Launch on both web and mobile platforms.

7. Timeline

Phase

Task

Duration

Requirement Analysis

Research and requirement gathering

Week 1, 2

Design

UI design and architecture planning

Week 3, 4

Development

AI/NLP chatbot logic

Weeks 5–10

Testing

Functional and usability testing

Weeks 11–12

Deployment

Launch and final documentation

Week 13

 

8. Resources

·         Development laptops

·         Internet connection

·         Access to mental health datasets for training the chatbot

9. Risk Management

Potential Risks:

·         Inaccurate chatbot responses due to limited training data.

·         Data privacy concerns if user data is not securely handled.

·         Misuse of the chatbot for purposes other than intended.

Mitigation Strategies:

·         Use pre-trained, well-documented NLP models.

·         Encrypt all user data and comply with GDPR standards.

·         Include disclaimers about the chatbot’s limitations.

10. Conclusion

The AI-Powered Mental Health Support Chatbot aims to address the growing need for accessible mental health solutions. Its innovative use of NLP, mood tracking, and resource recommendations provides a private and convenient support system. This project demonstrates how technology can positively impact society by improving mental health accessibility.

 

No comments:

Post a Comment