Mental health became a big issue during the COVID-19 pandemic. Government regulations heavily curtailed social interaction and made isolation mandatory. While necessary, this also caused anxiety and depression globally. to increase by 25% This was a prominent call to action for health organizations worldwide, and new technologies are developing to help combat mental illness. One of those technologies is the field of virtual reality (VR). The Benefits of Virtual Reality Therapy Virtual reality therapy is the use of virtual technology to aid in mental therapy. VR can by creating a simulated environment where patients can work through stressors. expand the realm of exposure therapy Therapists can have complete control of these environments to mitigate exposure to stressors, which then allows people to learn skills such as anxiety management. Once an emerging technology, virtual reality can now create interactable, fully immersive environments. This technology has various applications across the mental health field, from diagnosis to treatment. House Calls Through Virtual Reality Aside from direct treatments, therapists can use virtual reality to make house calls. These virtual sessions require a VR headset or other device to connect to each other. Therapists and patients use virtual avatars to communicate with each other in the simulation. Virtual sessions might even feel more relaxing for patients with social anxiety than in-person ones. These people might then feel freer to talk about stressors like issues at home or and how it affects them. the current social climate Treating Phobias with Virtual Reality Therapy One area of mental health where virtual reality therapy is making major changes is how doctors treat phobias. Phobias are an irrational and often crippling fear of a subject that does not pose an immediate threat to the individual. While these phobias are deep-seated, patients can learn to and cognitive behavioral therapy. overcome them using VR exposure VR exposure therapy is best done with the instruction of a licensed therapist. However, self-treatment apps are also available. One particular app is called oVRcome. Developed by tech entrepreneur Adam Hutchinson, of mental modules and exposure therapy to help treat patients. the app uses a combination Settings are available to control the intensity of the environments, and patients can allow their therapists access to their sessions. With COVID-19 still a big concern, apps like oVRcome can ensure patients keep up with their therapy even if they cannot leave their homes. Treating PTSD Using VR Like phobias, PTSD is another area where virtual reality therapy can be helpful. Therapists can that trigger patients’ PTSD. use VR environments to simulate conditions The therapists can control the intensity of these environments, gradually lessening the effect of the trigger. Studies show virtual reality therapy has a success rate of up to 90% when used to treat PTSD. Virtual Reality Therapy and Substance Abuse In 2022, in America ages 12 and over were victims of substance abuse. VR therapy is developing to help substance abusers overcome their addictions. over 20 million people This form of VR exposure therapy stimulates specific experiences patients are sensitive to. After recording their findings, therapists can of treatment that are best for the patient. make informed decisions on additional forms Regular sessions of this therapy can help the patient develop behaviors that will be beneficial to them. VR Treatment Is the Future Though VR exposure therapy is proven to be effective in a wide variety of areas, it still has yet to be widely adopted. This is due to the current limitations and skepticism around the use of virtual reality. However, as technology improves, VR treatment will become more effective.
