Virtual reality therapy may be the pinnacle achievement in the use of technology for the treatment of substance addiction and other mental health disorders. While still at the early stages of development, research continues to demonstrate its effectiveness and researchers are optimistic that the pace of technological advancement may make virtual reality therapy a reality for millions of people struggling with substance addiction across the globe.
When used for the treatment of substance addiction, virtual reality technology is used to simulate triggering situations that allow patients to confront difficult scenarios in a controlled and supervised environment. In addition to triggering situations, virtual reality therapists may also use the technology to simulate relaxing situations and aversion scenarios, where the sights, smells, and noises experienced are intended to disgust the patient.
A small study out of South Korea found that recovery alcoholics experienced fewer cravings after undergoing virtual reality therapy. In addition, virtual reality therapy for the treatment of a variety of substance addictions has been studied by a research team at Duke University for years with promising results.
Asana Recovery offers a supervised detoxification and residential treatment program that includes a variety of different therapy options for those struggling with an addiction to drugs or alcohol. Call us at (949) 438-4504 to learn more about our inspiring facilities and find out whether our substance addiction treatment program is right for you.
