Turning Point and Monash University researchers have begun a groundbreaking VR addiction treatment trial combining neuroscience, technology and clinical care to address alcohol dependence.

Professor Victoria Manning leads the innovative pilot study examining how VR addiction treatment can transform care during alcohol withdrawal. The intervention uses VR-delivered Approach Bias Modification (VR-ABM) to retrain automatic brain responses to alcohol-related cues.

Virtual Reality Technology

The VR-ABM system differs from traditional laptop or smartphone approaches by using immersive environments and embodied interaction. Participants physically “avoid” alcohol while moving toward positive, healthy cues in real time through this virtual reality approach.

Conducted with Uniting Vic. Tas and St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, the trial recruits inpatients currently undergoing alcohol withdrawal treatment.

Study Goals and Assessment

Researchers will evaluate the feasibility, acceptability and potential of this VR addiction treatment intervention. The primary focus examines whether the technology can reduce relapse rates after patients complete their discharge process.

This cutting-edge approach represents a significant development in technology-enhanced addiction treatment methods, offering new possibilities for supporting recovery outcomes during critical withdrawal periods.

Source: Turning Point