Virtual Reality to Help Treat Addiction

A new study indicates therapists can use a virtual reality (VR) program to help their patients deal with addiction problems. The use of these devices has been increasing over the years.

VR cue reactivity programs have been successfully tested for feasibility in nicotine and cocaine dependents for the field of substance abuse.

Seeking to expand VR applications in alcohol cue research, a novel VR alcohol cue reactivity assessment system incorporating visual, auditory, and olfactory stimuli was developed and tested, according to the Addictive Behaviors Journal. In a controlled trial, 40 non-treatment-seeking drinkers with alcohol use disorders were exposed to VR alcohol cue environments. Subjective craving, attention to alcohol cues, and level of presence (realism of experience) in VR were assessed across the environments.

It was found that the subjective craving for alcohol increased across the VR alcohol-related cue environments versus VR neutral cue environments. Participants reported high levels of presence in VR, indicating that the environments were perceived as realistic and compelling. These initial findings support the use of VR based cue reactivity environments for use in alcohol cue-based treatment and research.

With the environment behind virtual reality becoming more and more viable, this may present a very effective way for counselors to help clients build up their coping skills and tolerance to addiction problems.