- Goutami M
Trainee at Mind Splatters
Psychology, as a field, is one that constantly grows and evolves with time. With time, the number of research into different methods and concepts of therapy is also increasing. One such relatively new concept is Virtual Reality and its use in the field of Psychology.
The term ‘Virtual Reality’ was used for the first time when astronauts were trained using virtual reality simulation by NASA under Project VIEW. Virtual reality was then used by psychologists after pairing it up with prolonged exposure therapy. This was around the late 1990s, and researchers began to conduct studies about Virtual reality–based exposure therapy. Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy is known by various other names, including Virtual Reality Immersion Therapy, Simulation for Therapy, and Virtual Reality Therapy.
The main aim of VR is to use technology to generate environments that are immersive and allow users to interact with them, all within a controlled setting. VR is made accessible mainly by head-mounted devices or VR headsets. These have a stereoscopic display, sound, and sensors.
Together, they create a three–dimensional environment for the user and help to depict environments in more detail than imaginative depictions. This is aimed at providing more information regarding VRET: Benefits, disadvantages, and what it means in the Indian context.
Areas where VRET can be used:
It can be used to treat various issues on the mental health spectrum, ranging from anxiety to acrophobia. It helps while treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, as it helps to recreate the traumatic situation in a supervised setting. Some other illnesses where it can be used include phobias like claustrophobia, dystychiphobia, etc.
Benefits of VRET:
The equipment is cost–effective and affordable. It can be considered a long-term investment and is efficient. It also has the potential to be personalized. The therapist can almost always replicate the triggering objects, environments, or situations. The therapist oversees or supervises the session, and can intervene and stop it whenever necessary. This is not possible in a real-life situation.
Disadvantages of VRET:
Firstly, VRET is not widely accessible. This can also mean that the price of the equipment may vary depending on geographical location. It is still an emerging technology, and hence its availability is limited, especially in developing or under-developed countries. Secondly, the equipment used may have some side effects when used for long periods. This includes the users feeling dizzy or nauseous. Also, there is a lack of awareness regarding this aspect of therapy. This, combined with other reasons, may result in a lack of willingness from the patient or the therapist to try out Exposure therapy
Scope of VRET in India:
India as a country is still dealing with a lot of stigma around mental health and therapy. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is one of the most common methods used in psychotherapy in our country. VRET can be effectively combined with CBT, so the scope for usage growth is immense. In recent times, some clinics in India have begun to use VR for treatment and increasing awareness and making equipment more accessible will aid in increasing the use of VRET in India. Formal clinical training to administer VRET can be conducted, along with workshops and seminars about this mode of therapy to raise awareness and de-stigmatize it among mental health professionals.
While technology-based therapy is gaining popularity in India, it's essential to recognize that the conventional mode of therapy remains just as effective. We invite you to explore our services and experience the benefits of both traditional and technology-driven therapeutic approaches.
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