Virtual reality mental health project to offer new option for Hongkongers seeking help
- Survey finds 71 per cent of locals polled experienced at least one symptom of social avoidance because of anxiety and depression
- Project teaches confidence by providing virtual reality environments
A cutting-edge mental therapy that uses virtual reality to help patients overcome their social fears is being researched in Hong Kong – and 250 residents are being recruited to help.
In a press conference on Monday, organisers of the project – called Yes I Can – said test subjects would go traverse virtual reality (VR) environments that reflect everyday scenarios, like going to a cafe, convenience store or a doctor’s waiting room.
By doing so, the researchers said patients would learn to confront and safely engage in situations without fear and social withdrawal.
The research is said to be the first to use VR technology in mental therapy. The project was launched by AXA Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong and Oxford VR.
The treatment, which is free for those who take part in the research, aims to make it easier for Hongkongers to seek help for a range of mental health issues – including anxiety, depression or social avoidance.
A survey commissioned by the researchers found that 1-in-8 Hongkongers polled said they felt unable to discuss their mental well-being with anyone because of the social stigma that comes from seeking professional help.