Helping Those Recovering from Alcohol Addiction During the Holidays
As the holiday season approaches, many in recovery from alcohol addiction face unique challenges. Parties, family gatherings, and other social events can heighten anxiety and tempt individuals to relapse. Studies indicate that between 47% and 75% of those who have undergone treatment relapse within a year.
To combat this, researchers from Breda University of Applied Sciences, along with Novadic-Kentron and Thalamusa, have developed an innovative tool called RECOVRY. This program leverages Virtual and Augmented Reality technology to help users practice saying “no” to alcohol in simulated environments.
Virtual Training for Real-Life Scenarios
Imagine being in a bar, surrounded by friends and drinks. RECOVRY allows users to experience these scenarios virtually. According to Professor Marnix van Gisbergen, this immersive training helps individuals face their cravings while in a safe space. The program includes lifelike interactions, making the practice more effective.
Dr. Victor Buwalda, a psychiatrist and former medical director at Novadic-Kentron, explains the process behind RECOVRY. It combines traditional Cue Exposure Therapy with advanced VR techniques. The therapy starts in clinical settings, progresses to sessions with therapists, and eventually supports users at home without guidance.
Future Enhancements
Even with positive initial results, the team is eager to expand RECOVRY. They plan to add more scenarios, including those for other addictions, such as smoking. New features will also incorporate breathing exercises to help users relax after stressful VR sessions.
Looking Ahead
Early findings show that RECOVRY significantly reduces cravings and boosts self-confidence. The team is keen to investigate the long-term effects of this approach internationally, aiming to provide support to those facing similar challenges globally.
As we approach the festive season, tools like RECOVRY could make a meaningful difference for many individuals, offering them skills and confidence to navigate challenging social situations.
For more detailed insights into addiction recovery strategies and the role of technology in mental health treatment, consider visiting resources like the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
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alcohol addiction, festive season, VR environments, Augmented Reality, alcohol consumption, University of Applied Sciences, virtual environments, Virtual humans, BUas, Novadic-Kentron
