Researchers at Semmelweis University in Budapest have utilized VR to enhance the rehabilitation of schizophrenia patients. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), schizophrenia affects roughly 24 million people globally, severely impacting various life aspects. VR-ToMIS (VR-based Theory of Mind Intervention in Schizophrenia) therapy method was developed to boost patients' mentalization skills. - Schizophrenic patients often misinterpret others' feelings, thoughts, and desires, leading to misunderstandings.
- The VR-ToMIS therapy, created using British startup vTime's software, comprises nine sessions.
- It begins with an introduction to the technology and the ToM concept, followed by eight 50-minute intervention sessions.
- In these sessions, patients wear VR glasses and engage in everyday situations, from beach walks to blind dates, interacting with therapist-controlled avatars.
- After the simulation, patients use another VR device, the temporal disc controller, to identify emotions displayed on a 3D face.
- Feedback from patients was positive: 93.3% found the method entertaining, and 78% deemed it vital for their rehabilitation.
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