I came across this on the BBC and I thought I’d share it with you. Basically, it is the idea to make virtual reality software available to phobics over the internet, so they can be exposed to things which cause them anxiety.
Certainly flight simulators have been useful for some people with a fear of flying, at least as a precursor to exposure.
My only issue with this is that the expert quoted here, Prof, David Alexander, says that to treat a phobia you have to expose yourself to what you fear. I would take some issue with that statement. Yes, you do have to face your fears gradually. But sometimes, when we have several or complex phobias like agoraphobia, what we see as a simple phobia is our own unconscious attempt to protect us from something we dread, so a more analytical approach can be useful to get to the bottom of things. Ultimately, if you suffer from many anxieties and phobias you might find that as you understand yourself and your motivations more, through analytical therapy, some old phobias simply fall by the wayside. I have personal experience of that.
Anyway, please tell me what you think about this or anything else.
People suffering from phobias could soon learn to overcome their fears through cyberspace.
Specialists in Aberdeen are working on a virtual treatment delivered direct to patients’ homes through the internet, overcoming any lack of therapists.
They hope phobias such as a fear or flying, or a fear of driving after having an accident, could be helped.
The work is being carried out by staff at the Aberdeen Centre for Trauma Research (ACTR).
They hope that virtual reality tools similar to computer games can be used by patients on home computers rather than having to go into clinics.
This could mean single therapists monitoring several patients at the same time.
ACTR’s Professor David Alexander told BBC Scotland: “To try and treat a phobia you have to expose the patient to what they fear.
“We can control what people are seeing and they can sit in a situation like real life. The closer you get to the situation the more likely you are to reduce the anxiety.”
As well as overcoming any therapist shortages, it is hoped patients too anxious to travel for treatment will also find the home assistance helpful
ACTR’s Dr Susan Klein said: “By offering this in their own homes they feel in a safe environment.”
Former hostage Terry Waite officially launched the UK’s only trauma victim helpline in Aberdeen in November.
The Sudden Trauma Information Service Helpline (STISH) aids victims of sudden daily trauma, such as assaults, road, industrial and domestic accidents.
Here’s the link.
Two more links:
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