Summary of Approach
Café SereniTea is a seated VR experience for Oculus Quest. The User begins with the POV of someone experiencing a panic attack who then receives coaching on how to cope with their symptoms through exercises until they can seek a safer space. Next, the POV switches to a friend witnessing the first person’s distress who then receives coaching on how to neutralize environmental stressors for their friend.
Café SereniTea gives Users insight into the lived experience of those suffering from panic attacks and provides skills they can use to navigate distressing situations.

Subject-Matter/Problem Background
Our general topic is about social anxiety and panic disorders. Social anxiety is highly prevalent in the general population and is resurgent with the recent return from isolation due to COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns. Many people may need to learn skills to manage stressful environments and may not have professional support.
The problems we are tackling are: How do environments influence the onset and severity of a panic attack? How can those suffering from panic attacks mitigate their symptoms? How can peers recognize attacks and assist their friends in de-escalating a panic attack by removing stressors?

XR Platform
Oculus Quest

Project Presentation
https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ITXhqPR8A6WXez42qbWRGvb1ucXbx7GyLC1h_t3EilQ/edit?usp=sharing

Research or Subject-Matter References
Panic attack signs (DSM-5)
https://www.verywellmind.com/diagnosing-panic-disorder-2583930

Link between COVID-19 and panic/anxiety disorders
https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/agoraphobia-has-covid-fueled-this-anxiety-disorder-202103152409

Recommended strategies to mitigate social anxiety severity
https://www.healthline.com/health/anxiety/how-to-get-over-social-anxiety

Evidence for regulated breathing as a method to reduce anxiety
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/274965480_Self-Regulation_of_Breathing_as_a_Primary_Treatment_for_Anxiety

4-7-8 Self-regulated breathing technique
https://www.healthline.com/health/4-7-8-breathing

Full Credits for all of the Team Members and Contributors
Brandon Sands, Lorena Lopez, Manouj Kumar, Rachel De Paz, Tianyun Wang, Zevensuy Rodriguez