How to Build a Community Recovery Circle App for Addiction Support

Simple Summary

A community-driven mobile app for addiction recovery support, providing a safe space for users to connect, share experiences, and access resources.

Product Requirements Document (PRD)

Goals:

• Create a supportive digital community for individuals in addiction recovery
• Provide tools for tracking recovery progress and milestones
• Offer access to resources and professional support
• Ensure user privacy and anonymity

Target Audience:

• Individuals in various stages of addiction recovery
• Support groups and recovery coaches
• Mental health professionals specializing in addiction

Key Features:

1. User profiles with anonymity options
2. Community forums and discussion boards
3. Progress tracking and milestone celebrations
4. Resource library (articles, videos, podcasts)
5. Anonymous messaging and support chat
6. Virtual support group meetings
7. Professional directory for therapists and counselors
8. Emergency support hotline integration

User Requirements:

• Easy and secure registration process
• Intuitive navigation and user-friendly interface
• Customizable privacy settings
• Real-time notifications for support and encouragement
• Ability to connect with peers and professionals
• Access to educational materials and recovery resources

User Flows

1. User Registration and Profile Creation:

   • Download app
   • Create account with email or phone number
   • Set up profile (optional anonymity settings)
   • Complete initial recovery assessment

2. Participating in Community Support:

   • Browse community forums
   • Create or respond to posts
   • Join virtual support group meetings
   • Send private messages to peers

3. Tracking Recovery Progress:

   • Log daily mood and triggers
   • Record sober days and milestones
   • Set and track personal goals
   • Share progress with community (optional)

Technical Specifications

Frontend:

• React Native for cross-platform mobile development
• Redux for state management
• Styled-components for UI styling

Backend:

• Node.js with Express.js for API development
• PostgreSQL for relational data storage
• Redis for caching and session management

APIs and Services:

• Twilio for SMS notifications and hotline integration
• Firebase for real-time database and push notifications
• Amazon S3 for file storage (profile pictures, resources)

Security:

• JWT for authentication
• bcrypt for password hashing
• HTTPS for all communications

API Endpoints

• POST /api/auth/register
• POST /api/auth/login
• GET /api/users/:id
• PUT /api/users/:id
• GET /api/forums
• POST /api/forums/:id/posts
• GET /api/resources
• POST /api/progress
• GET /api/meetings
• POST /api/messages

Database Schema

Users:

• id (PK)
• username
• email
• password_hash
• recovery_start_date
• is_anonymous

Posts:

• id (PK)
• user_id (FK)
• forum_id (FK)
• content
• created_at

Progress:

• id (PK)
• user_id (FK)
• date
• mood
• sober_days
• notes

Resources:

• id (PK)
• title
• type
• url
• category

Messages:

• id (PK)
• sender_id (FK)
• receiver_id (FK)
• content
• sent_at

File Structure

Implementation Plan

1. Project Setup (1 week)

   • Initialize React Native project
   • Set up version control
   • Configure development environment

2. Backend Development (3 weeks)

   • Set up Node.js/Express server
   • Implement database schema and connections
   • Develop API endpoints
   • Implement authentication and security measures

3. Frontend Development (4 weeks)

   • Create UI components
   • Implement navigation
   • Develop screens for each main feature
   • Integrate with backend APIs

4. Feature Implementation (4 weeks)

   • Develop forum and messaging functionality
   • Create progress tracking and milestone features
   • Implement resource library
   • Integrate virtual meeting capabilities

5. Testing and Refinement (2 weeks)

   • Conduct unit and integration testing
   • Perform user acceptance testing
   • Refine UI/UX based on feedback

6. Security and Compliance (1 week)

   • Conduct security audit
   • Ensure HIPAA compliance for user data
   • Implement data encryption and anonymity features

7. Deployment and Launch (1 week)

   • Set up production environment
   • Deploy to app stores
   • Prepare marketing materials

8. Post-launch Support and Iteration (Ongoing)

   • Monitor app performance and user feedback
   • Provide technical support
   • Plan and implement feature updates

Deployment Strategy

1. Set up separate staging and production environments
2. Use Docker for containerization to ensure consistency across environments
3. Deploy backend to AWS Elastic Beanstalk for scalability
4. Use Amazon RDS for managed PostgreSQL database
5. Implement CI/CD pipeline with GitHub Actions
6. Deploy mobile app to Apple App Store and Google Play Store
7. Use Firebase Cloud Messaging for push notifications
8. Implement logging and monitoring with ELK stack (Elasticsearch, Logstash, Kibana)
9. Set up automated backups for database and user-generated content
10. Use CDN for faster content delivery of static assets

Design Rationale

The app's design focuses on creating a safe, supportive, and user-friendly environment for individuals in recovery. The use of React Native ensures a consistent experience across iOS and Android platforms, while the Node.js backend provides a scalable foundation for future growth. The choice of PostgreSQL allows for complex data relationships necessary for social features and progress tracking.

Anonymity options and strong security measures are prioritized to protect user privacy and encourage open participation. The implementation of real-time features like messaging and forums using WebSockets enhances the sense of community and immediate support. The progress tracking and resource library features are designed to provide tangible tools for recovery, complementing the social aspects of the app.

The modular file structure and use of Redux for state management facilitate easier maintenance and future feature additions. The deployment strategy emphasizes scalability and reliability, crucial for an app dealing with sensitive user data and potentially life-critical support functions.