New virtual reality therapy helps hoarders back to life

VR goggles used to tackle mental illness (symbolic image: Bing AI)

Virtual reality goggles can aid in treating hoarding disorder, a form of obsessive-compulsive disorder, as per recent research by Stanford University. The use of VR headsets in therapy can significantly alleviate the distress endured by those living in homes that are partially uninhabitable.

Nicole Dominikowski (translated by Nicole Dominikowski), Published 10/28/2023 🇩🇪 🇨🇳 ...

Business Virtual Reality (VR) / Augmented Reality (AR)

A recent study by Stanford University suggests using virtual reality goggles to assist individuals with difficulty in disposing of rubbish. This is because the VR headsets aid in training them on the proper methods of disposal. Those that suffer from the mental disorder find it troublesome to let go of things, even when they occupy so much space that their living conditions become unlivable.

This is due to their inability to determine the worth and practicality of such items. Even when people feel really uncomfortable at home, they often can't get rid of all their extra stuff without someone else's help. Getting rid of rubbish is really stressful, so they usually can't do it on their own. They don't know what things are valuable and what things aren't, so they feel stuck and can't throw anything away.

The disorderly home environment, difficulty in decision-making and personal dilemmas can result in excessive demands that may cause physical illness. Often, individuals suffering from Messie Syndrome withdraw from social interaction out of embarrassment over their unclean living space and possible odours. The causes of the condition are diverse and unique. Reality tv shows like 'Hoarders' may exacerbate their apprehension of social criticism.

Training in individualized VR simulation

The study, published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, describes the progress of nine people diagnosed with obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder (OCD), which often co-occurs with other mental health conditions. After attending online group therapy for several weeks, the participants made videos of chosen things and the most untidy places in their homes, which were rendered into virtual reality.

Participants then underwent a training phase where they practiced discarding or donating items in simulated rooms, for instance. Subsequently, the knowledge acquired in the simulation was applied in a much milder form in the real world.

According to the researchers, VR could be a helpful supplementary tool in therapy if overseen by professionals, such as psychologists. Carolyn Rodriguez, a professor of mental health and behavior at Stanford University and head researcher of the study, explains that navigating a virtual reality environment is like a "kind of stepping stone," that can assist with overcoming initial challenges.

People tend to have a lot of biases against hoarding disorder and see it as a personal limitation instead of a neurobiological entity. We just really want to get the word out that there’s hope and treatment for people who suffer from this. They don’t have to go it alone.