Calling all academics, researchers, and practitioners that are involved in the research, development, or application of information communication technology that addresses accessibility issues experienced by persons with mental health disabilities. This Special Thematic Session invites you to submit your contributions to this field.
Human Computer Interaction (HCI) design and digital accessibility barriers can trigger mental health disorders. Conversely, accessible, and well-informed HCI can provide greater access, usability, and meaningful experiences to individuals living with a mental health diagnosis. This session invites researchers, developers, and practitioners to share their insight, research, or solutions, that impact mental health conditions.
20% of all adults worldwide live with a mental health disorder. Neurological, mental health, and behavioral disorders, such as depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), can affect a person’s executive function. Executive function issues are symptomatic of a variety of neurological, mental health, and behavioral disorders that effect users’ ability to interact with the web, and all of its interconnected technology.
For example, depression may affect certain executive functions, such as memory, attention, and control of inhibitions, which may be exacerbated by accessibility issues. Alzheimer’s can sometimes severely impair executive function, and a person may no longer be able to drive, get dressed, or behave appropriately in social situations, which may be mitigated by improved accessibility and user experience improvements or specific technology innovations.
Executive function is a broad group of mental skills that enable people to complete tasks and interact with others. An executive function disorder can impair a person’s ability to organize themselves and control their behavior, as well as a range of skills, such as:
- Planning and organization
- Concentrating and controlling mental focus
- Analyzing and processing information
- Controlling emotions and behavior
- Remembering details
- Managing time
- Multitasking
- Problem-solving
If you have a contribution that addresses any of these issues as they relate information communication technology, we welcome you to submit it to this STS.
This session is organized by Helix Opportunity Institute.
Chair
David Fazio, Helix Opportunity Institute