Cog-HCI: Leveraging Interface Design for Enhanced Mental Health and Cognitive Wellness

Abstract

The rapidly growing field of human-computer interaction (HCI) holds great promise for improving cognitive and mental health. This innovative workshop titled "Cog-HCI: Leveraging Interface Design for Enhanced Mental Health and Cognitive Wellness" will explore the potential connections between HCI and mental health and cognitive well-being. The focus will be on applying HCI to enhance cognition, mental health, and decision-making using low-cost, non-invasive methods, including brain stimulation techniques such as transcranial electrical stimulation (tES). The session will also examine the use of electroencephalography (EEG) and heart rate variability (HRV) to improve feedback and enable individuals to actively control their cognitive well-being. Additionally, the workshop will investigate the development of HCI for low-cost social robots and VR-based storytelling applications and integrate Indian Knowledge Systems interventions such as meditation and yoga within HCI interfaces. Despite its potential, further research is needed in this field, which the workshop aims to encourage. Participants will engage in in-depth discussions, brainstorm ideas for emotionally intelligent and compassionate interface designs, and work together to overcome the challenges of integrating multiple interventions with HCI to improve mental and cognitive wellness. The ultimate goal is strengthening the mutually beneficial relationship between HCI and mental health by prioritizing emotional and cognitive well-being and enhancing the digital human experience

This workshop solicits submissions in the aforementioned fields with the goal of promoting the development of knowledge and comprehension through the continued adoption of techniques and frameworks that facilitate the availability and accessibility of HCI solutions for improving cognitive wellness and mental health.

Goals

The purpose of this workshop is to bring together a diverse group of researchers, practitioners, and academicians from the fields of Computer Science, Human-Computer Interaction, Neuroscience, Psychology, Biomedical Engineering, Industrial Design, and Cognitive and Medical Sciences. The focus of the research will be on designing human-computer interaction frameworks derived from both Western and Indian science, with an emphasis on novel technologies that aim to improve decision-making, cognitive wellness, and mental health. Participants are expected to present their research in these areas and receive feedback from their peers. Additionally, as part of the larger theme of the PETRA conference, there will be opportunities for participants to interact with leading scientists working on other accessible, non-invasive, flexible interventions, leading to a fruitful exchange of ideas that could advance the state-of-the-art transformative technologies relevant to the field of cognitive wellness and mental health

List of Topics

In the scope of this workshop, we are interested in the exploration of the concepts, application scenarios, and development of tools. While our focus at LIST lies on personalised health recommendations and upskilling, we welcome perspectives from other domains to jointly develop a research roadmap.

Possible topics for contributions are:

• Cognitive Enhancement through Neuromodulation Techniques
• Neurofeedback and Biofeedback Approaches
• Utilization of Social Robots in Mental Health
• Utilization of AI chatbots for assisting Mental Health service providers
• VR-Storytelling for Moral Retention and Mental Health
• Brain-to-Text Communication for the Differently-abled
• Biosignal Applications and Affordable Devices
• Brain-Computer Interface for Specific Demographic Groups
• Interventions from the Indian Knowledge System
• Enhancing Decision-Making with Cognitive Technologies
• Immersive Technologies in Mental Health and Education
• Integration of Western and Indian Scientific Methods

Workshop Organizers