VR-based methods for treating phobias

Virtual reality can be used to address psychological issues. Psychologists use virtual reality to treat phobias through simulations that bit by bit have patients face feared situations under controlled circumstances. Gradually, patients master their feelings concerning the noxious stimuli and surmount their fears. Similarly, when tangible pain reduction methods are insufficient, immersion in Virtual Reality (VR) can help patients with chronic pain by taking their mind off the pain. You may also see 3D Visual Data Mining for more VR-related material.

Virtual reality can help people with brain injuries to once again be able to perform elementary activities by rehabilitation of injured areas of the brain or enabling patients to learn to use new areas. Virtual reality can train people with sensory impairments for direction in an unfamiliar place by first exposing them to a virtual (e.g. sonic and haptic) model of that place. The site on Virtual Tours Lowell, Massachusetts for more on this topic.

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