Visual Aids For Agoraphobia Or Panic Disorder

If you have agoraphobia or panic disorder, knowing which visual aids are best suited for you can help to alleviate some of your symptoms. In this post, we will describe the differences between virtual reality and augmented reality therapy to help you decide which is best for you.

Virtual Reality Therapy:

VR therapy utilizes a computer system and headset that simulates a three-dimensional world and records the user’s movement within it. This approach allows the user to explore their surroundings without actually going outside, building up their confidence in different situations or environments. 

Augmented Reality Therapy: 

AR therapy is not restricted by boundaries like VR. AR therapy uses a tablet or smartphone to merge the user’s view of the real world with computer-generated effects, augmenting reality. This approach, while not completely immersive like VR, allows the user to test their mental strength in real-world environments while being supported by a therapist on an app.

Benefits of Each Approach: 

While VR has been shown to be more effective in treating chronic anxiety than AR, it does have several drawbacks as well. It is generally more expensive and takes longer to learn how to use correctly. Another major drawback is that it is difficult for users with motion sickness issues to use this treatment method effectively without experiencing symptoms like dizziness or nausea.

AR is relatively cheaper, faster to learn and easier for people with motion sickness problems. It also allows you to keep your phone nearby for support in difficult situations and the therapist will be able to see how you are doing through live video feeds.

Whichever approach you choose, working with a therapist can help you build confidence when it comes to managing your agoraphobia or panic attacks. 

If you would like further information on virtual reality therapy or augmented reality therapy, we invite you to contact our clinic where we offer both of these approaches. We also offer more conventional treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy if these approaches don’t work for you.

For more information, please visit http://www.cognitivepsychotherapy.com/ or contact us by phone at (647)-789-4545 or email: info@cognitivepsychotherapy.com.

Title: Comparing The Effects Of Virtual Reality And Augmented Reality On Panic Disorder and Agoraphobia [ARTICLE START]

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) have both been suggested to treat people with anxiety or other disorders. However, there has been little research to compare the effectiveness of these approaches. This report compares the effects of VR, AR and an attention-control condition on fear-proneness, avoidance and two subtypes of agoraphobia. Six participants were assigned to a treatment condition, either VR or AR/attention-control. They resisted the temptation to flee from an open door in a small dark room using a virtual target.

Conclusion