Automated virtual reality therapy helps people overcome phobia of heights

Automated virtual reality therapy helps people overcome phobia of heights

Automated virtual reality therapy helps people overcome phobia of heights 150 150 icnagency

By: Nicola Davis | Automated virtual reality therapy helps people overcome phobia of heights | Neuroscience | The Guardian

Scientists hope computer programme which requires no human therapist could be used to treat other mental health problems

A fear of heights could be overcome with the help of a virtual therapist, new research suggests, with experts saying the findings boost hopes virtual reality could play a key role in tackling other mental health problems.

According to a 2014 YouGov survey, an aversion to heights is more common in the UK than a fear of spiders, snakes, or being on a plane, with 23% of British adults “very afraid” of heights and 35% a little afraid.

Related: Don’t dismiss tech solutions to mental health problems

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