Virtual Reality: Virtual reality headsets can reduce phobias; What does the new research say? | VR headset will be helpful in reducing common phobias, suggests reports

Many people around the world struggle with various phobias. Some have phobias of heights, others of closed spaces, flying (air travel) phobias (Phobia) is Some people are afraid of needles, spiders or animals like dogs. But information has come out that will be useful for people suffering from phobias. Virtual Reality (VR – Virtual reality) therapy can reduce phobias, new research has revealed. One out of every 12 people in the world has some form of phobia. Research on this has been published in the ‘Australian and New Zealand Journal of Psychiatry’. After about six weeks of treatment (virtual reality therapy), participants’ phobia symptoms (Symptoms) showed a 75 percent reduction, it states.

Treatment of phobias and anxiety

For the research, 129 people aged 18 to 64 who were afraid of flying (air travel), heights, needles, spiders and dogs were studied. The trial was conducted between May 2021 and December 2021. They were then followed up for 12 weeks. Participants downloaded a fully self-guided smartphone app used to treat phobias and anxiety. In this, some questions were mailed every week (to the participants) and progress was recorded based on their answers. Clinical psychologists were kept on hand to help those who might suffer more (of phobias).

Significant improvement after this program

Participants used an app and headsets containing a combined program of ‘virtual reality (VR) 360-degree video exposure therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)’. Those who had all five phobias — fear of flying (air travel), high places, needles, spiders, and dogs — showed significant improvement after the program. This program included many components of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT components) such as psychoeducation, relaxation, mindfulness, cognitive techniques, relapse prevention model.