Launch link
Instructions to access
- Install Steam and VRChat onto your laptop.
- Note: room is not compatible with Quest headset settings.
- Note: room is not compatible with Quest headset settings.
- Log into VRChat with this VRChat proxy account:
- Username: dreamhull_key
- Password: redesign2023
- In case it asks for security code, enter proxy email:
- Email: [email protected]
- Password: redesign2023
- Explore The Dreamhull at your leisure!
Problem Statement
The introvert population's self-critical nature and practices make them at risk of generating high levels of neuroticism - a predisposition and tendency towards negative emotions - which can lead to them developing mixed anxiety-depressive disorder (MADD), a subcategory of depression with additional anxiety symptoms. Recent research indicates MADD might be more common than its components.
Design Concept
The Dreamhull proposes the usage of emerging technology virtual reality (VR) - specifically the platform VRChat - to facilitate and assist with long-distance therapeutic sessions between introverted MADD patients and MADD-specialized therapists. VR is accessed with digital avatars that fully conceal their users' appearances, which can reduce social anxieties common within introverts, while allowing unfiltered vocal communications not unlike a telephone service. The Dreamhull's aesthetics center around outdoor therapy, using elements of open outdoors and natural materials (processed wood and mountainous rock) to instill feelings of therapeutic calmness into the virtual ship's visitors.
Functionality
With a Steam account created and VRChat installed, through a privately shared room entrance website link, patients can converse with their appointed therapist aboard The Dreamhull private instance. Aboard this wooden ship that floats above a bedrock of alpine mountains, its users can adjust the visible sky's background and ambience to their soothing needs through an onboard custom interface. Should they desire it, patients can interact with the local VR realm with a digital avatar - the Boilbot Body - specially designed for their introverted comforts. Therapists can also make use of the onboard behavioural activation tools - currently including a chess set and virtual drawing pens - to add to the patient recovery experience.
