Towards Virtual Therapy for Alcoholic Depression

Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy (VRET) is an alternative to standard graded exposure, in treating alcoholic depression, where participants are exposed in to 3D environments, a bar and a beach, with spatial, narrative and physical immersion since standard therapies present an unsolvable dilemma for some persons. Cue exposure of virtual bar with coping skills decreases drinking and elicits craving in real situations. Beach as a relaxation technique gives positive changes physically and mentally and reduces depression. Skin resistance as a measure of emotional state is used for monitoring relaxation level through the environments. Alcohol craving and attention increased across bar and reduced drastically in beach on severe drinkers. Participants perceived high levels of relaxation and a distraction from alcohol craving in beach. VRET presents a mind distraction to beach when experiences alcohol, controls drinking and reduces depressed mood. Hence, VRET is a promising new medium for treating alcoholic depression.