For people who struggle with mental illness such as depression or anxiety, as well as those with Autism or ADHD, executive dysfunction can be a real hassle. The struggle to find motivation, complete seemingly simple tasks, and stay on top of daily hygiene, cleaning, and medication routines can seem impossible for those with a dopamine deficiency – mainly as the rise of social media and smartphone apps provides an addictive and instant dopamine hit for many. However, a straightforward app is designed to change all of that.
The concept of Finch is simple – take care of a digital pet bird, dress it up, and even decorate its home. However, to do so, you must accomplish a task off a daily list. The users choose tasks as simple as “brush teeth” or “get out of bed.” The app gives users the same dopamine rush as scrolling through social media, but with a catch – the good feeling comes after doing something to take care of yourself. By associating dopamine hits with self-care habits, Finch helps users build and reinforce daily routines so that seemingly impossible tasks eventually become regular habits.
Finch was created to work in tandem with the user’s exact needs. The app includes several programs to help people, regardless of what goals they are trying to achieve. With additional motivation “eggs” assigned to more complex tasks, users can focus on specific habits such as daily exercise, journaling, or remembering to take medication.
The app also includes a social aspect. Users can invite friends to join and receive extra rewards by sending daily messages of encouragement. Users are encouraged to “bond” with digital pets by sending them on daily adventures and responding to Finch’s latest discoveries. Interactions with innocent digital pets can allow some users struggling with PTSD or childhood trauma to connect with an inner-child version of themselves by embracing the creature with kindness and empathy.
The app includes a digital journal, reflection prompts, focus timers, and several other mindfulness tools developed and used by accredited counselors and psychologists. Users can focus on confidence building, restructuring negative thoughts, combating anxiety, and so much more. Finch is the perfect tool for anyone looking to improve their mental health, build strong habits, or feel less lonely.
