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       VOIX NEWS    ·       EDITION 7    ·     NOVEMBER 2023

Learning about the role of Virtual Reality (VR) in boosting social skills among young people!

With the rapid technological advancement in medicine and mental health, we wanted to shed light on a relatively new, but increasingly influential tool in mental health support - Virtual Reality (VR). VR has emerged as a powerful medium for youth struggling with mental health issues, specifically for developing and enhancing their social skills.

Luckily for us, our Operations Manager, Vanessa – whom you know well – is jetting off to the Sunshine Coast this Friday to explore what’s new and cool in VR training, support and even therapy. You can find out more here.

We plan to publish several blogs and social media posts about VR in youth mental health following her adventure. But, for today let’s start with…

Assertiveness Training for Youth with

Mental Health Challenges.

This genuinely innovative concept is certainly one to consider. While traditional therapies are effective, incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as virtual reality allows us to take it one step further. The core idea behind using VR in assertiveness training is to create an almost real, controlled, and safe environment where young people struggling with mental health issues can learn and practice assertiveness skills. It is a blend of immersive technology and therapeutic intervention that creates a unique and more engaging platform for therapy.

Let us paint a vivid picture of how this works…

Imagine a shy, introverted teenager struggling with social anxiety disorder. Using a VR headset in a controlled therapeutic setting, this teenager is immersed in various social scenarios - such as a bustling school cafeteria or a crowded city bus. In these scenarios, they are challenged to stand up for themselves, voice their needs, and navigate social intricacies. The therapist, using real-time data from the VR program, provides live guidance and feedback to the teenager, helping them learn assertiveness skills in these simulated environments. Over time, the teenager becomes more confident and assertive, better equipped to handle real-life situations.

In the world of mental health, virtual reality (VR) for exposure therapy is becoming a significant player. However, some myths are muddying the waters. Let's dissect them.

Myth 1: VR isn't realistic enough for effective therapy.

This is false. A study by Maples-Keller et al. in the Journal of Anxiety Disorders reveals "VR is effective in delivering exposure therapy".

Myth 2: VR can cause motion sickness.

Indeed, it's true. Bouchard et al. in Cyberpsychology & Behaviour found that "cybersickness can occur during VR sessions".

Myth 3: VR treatment can lead to addiction.

False. The Journal of Behavioural Addictions states, "No evidence exists proving a direct link between VR therapy and addictive behaviours".

Myth 4: It's expensive to incorporate VR into therapy.

Again, it's false. As the Journal of Medical Internet Research states, "More affordable VR technology is now available".

Myth 5: VR can cause social isolation.

Well, this can be true. An article in the Journal of Psychology & Psychotherapy states, "overuse of VR can potentially lead to social isolation".

Bottom line? Two myths are true: VR can cause motion sickness and social isolation if overused. But, it's affordable, not addictive, and highly effective for exposure therapy.

Stay informed. Keep striving for mental health.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts on this innovative concept.

Find our Voice here.