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How does a virtual therapy affect the fear of heights?
Some people develop fear of heights at some point in their lives, others are already afraid of heights in childhood. Affected people panic as soon as they are at a high level, whether they are secure or not. Researchers have now discovered that virtual treatment can be used to treat fear of heights.
Scientists at the University of Oxford have recognized in their current research that virtual therapy can help people with vertigo overcome their phobia. The experts published the results of their study in the English journal "The Lancet Psychiatry".
Many study participants suffer from vertigo for over 30 years
A new virtual reality (VR) program for acrophobia (vertigo ) was tested on volunteers. On examination, there was one treatment group and another group for control, explain the doctors. Most participants have been suffering from anxiety for over 30 years. The 44 subjects in the treatment group received a total of five or six 30-minute VR treatment sessions over two weeks.
70% of subjects were cured of their fear of heights
The results observed in the study were quite significant. say the experts. About 70 percent of the VR group was no longer afraid of heights after treatment, while everyone in the untreated control group continued to suffer from high altitude anxiety.
How did the simulation unfold?
The VR Simulator puts people in a safe situation where they can learn to handle their anxiety. Attendees wear what is called a virtual reality headset and are invited to move into a 10-story building and do scary tasks, such as looking overhead, explain the scientists. One of the most difficult tasks was to go on a platform to save a cat from a tree
The subjects should face their fear
The study should include Fun tasks and, above all, participants convince them to face their fear, says study author, Professor Daniel Freeman of Oxford University. Exercises should teach subjects to feel safe even at high altitudes.
More Therapists and Technological Solutions Needed
The therapy is also accompanied by a virtual coach, which quiets the user and sets the path. Some patients may prefer such treatment to direct treatment with a doctor, experts speculate. This could save a lot of money for the health system in the future. We need more qualified therapists, not less, say the researchers. To meet the great demand for mental health treatments, powerful technological solutions are also needed, says Professor Freeman.
One in five people will eventually suffer from vertigo
A VR therapy pilot project is now in place with some NHS clinics have begun. Hopefully this form of treatment will be a useful new way of helping people overcome their fears, adds Professor Freeman. Dizziness is probably the most common phobia. About one in five people suffer from fear of heights at some point in their lives. (As)
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