The virtual reality technology that has been popularized by video games may also be of use to doctors in treating patients with a variety of mental health issues. A technology firm from Lithuania that currently develops mobile applications has asserted that the use of virtual reality technology may be effective in treating mental health issues through exposure therapy.
Exposure therapy works by gradually exposing a patient to his or her phobia in order to help them build a tolerance to it. The use of virtual reality headsets would allow patients to be exposed to their fear in a safe and controlled environment while still receiving the benefit of the therapy.
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For example, once a patient with a fear of heights is outfitted with the headset, their doctor could begin a simulation that had them standing at the top of a skyscraper. While in reality, this exposure could be extremely dangerous, the use of virtual reality would allow the patient to reach the top of the skyscraper without ever leaving the safety of their doctor’s office. The patient would remain in a safe and controlled environment, under the watchful eye of their doctor who can monitor their progress and prevent any negative side effects from occurring.
The use of virtual technology in exposure therapy is currently being tested in nine clinical trials in order to determine potential side effects as well as whether it can be an effective long-term treatment. The technology firm hopes that with further testing, mental health apps and virtual reality technology may be used in helping treat anxiety, post-traumatic syndromes, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and addictions like smoking and alcoholism.
Related: Bird watching linked with better mental health: Study
Mohan Garikiparithi got his degree in medicine from Osmania University (University of Health Sciences). He practiced clinical medicine for over a decade before he shifted his focus to the field of health communications. During his active practice he served as the head of the Dept. of Microbiology in a diagnostic centre in India. On a three-year communications program in Germany, Mohan developed a keen interest in German Medicine (Homoeopathy), and other alternative systems of medicine. He now advocates treating different medical conditions without the use of traditional drugs. An ardent squash player, Mohan believes in the importance of fitness and wellness.
