How can VR headsets help with addiction treatment?

Using VR headsets, participants experience realistic everyday situations in which they are at risk of relapsing into addiction. They are virtually exposed to stressful situations, such as the alcohol aisle in a supermarket.

Medical sensors measure physical responses and how effectively the coping strategies practised are already working. This makes the treatment more effective.

Professor Christian Hanshans from the Department of Applied Sciences and Mechatronics is conducting research in this area.