A virtual reality intervention to help young people who hear voices
We are currently developing Depict VR, a new VR application in response to the mental health crisis affecting young people. Over 1 million (12%) young people in the UK hear voices, and many choose not to disclose their experience for fear of being stigmatised. However, being able to share these experiences is the first step towards managing the voices and finding positive outcomes.
Depict VR is designed to help young people share their voice hearing experience and build a more meaningful relationship with a trusted confidante, who could be a parent or close friend. Research shows that strengthening these relationships has a positive impact on mental health and can help young people reconcile their voice hearing experience.
We are working with psychologist Dr Preethi Premkumar at London South Bank University to research and develop the concept. The application is being built by independent VR developer Virtus Studios headed by Luke Anderson. We have recently been awarded a grant from Innovate UK's Mindset XR competition to complete the first feasibility study of Depict VR. The project is also supported by a British Academy Small Research grant which is focused on determining the acceptability of Depict VR with clinicians and therapists working in a clinical setting.
We are currently recruiting young people aged 16 to 25 to try out Depict VR for the feasibility study.
