Southeast Louisiana VA has adopted a new tool to treat a wide range of mental and physical health conditions. The health care system has begun using virtual reality (VR) therapy to treat conditions that have traditionally required medications and intensive inpatient therapies.
For conditions such as anxiety and depression, VR therapy allows patients to confront and manage their traumas in a safe and controlled environment. By immersing patients in realistic scenarios, VR helps desensitize them to the triggers that cause anxiety, providing a path toward recovery and an improved quality of life.
VR has also shown potential in treating physical ailments, such as those that result in chronic pain or loss of motor skills. Patients can participate in rehabilitative activities designed to improve their symptoms while reducing reliance on costly or specialized equipment.
Exciting addition to health care services
“Virtual reality therapy is a transformative tool that empowers Veterans on their journey to recovery,” said Dr. Scott Mackey, chief of virtual and integrated care. “It’s an exciting addition to our comprehensive health care services and we are committed to making it accessible to as many Veterans as possible.”
At a recent event in New Orleans, the medical center demonstrated VR technology to over 100 Veterans and health care providers who came to learn about its potential benefits. Attendees also heard from Veterans who had benefitted from the treatments.
“It’s a lifeline.”
“VR therapy has been a game-changer for me,” said one Veteran. “It’s like taking a journey back to my peaceful place whenever I need it. It’s not just therapy, it’s a lifeline.”
VA is working to identify patients who would benefit from the treatment. Interested Veterans can speak with their VA health care provider to learn more. For more information about the new Veterans medical center, clinic locations and other services available to Veterans in southeast Louisiana, visit the New Orleans VA website.
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Tried to leave a comment but I don’t see from before . My opinion is , and others also , it should be called PTLE . Post traumatic lived experience.
I believe it should be known as PTS and drop the d in many cases . How can a lived experience, be s disorder? In many situations but not all , psychotropic drugs most importantly are not needed . A bigger emphasis should be placed on natural remedies and recovery group approach. Get rest , eat nutritious food and no alcohol . Give your self time and a break . Try too be positive.
Is this treatment available at a VA hospital in New York State, I am near the Albany, N Y VA hospital
Is Atlanta on the list?
A number of years ago before Virtual Reality, if I was feeling depressed, I’d play war video games to shoot the depression out of me. I didn’t fight my war, Vietnam,but WWII wars. It helped and I always felt better.
Is VR Therapy, coming to Colorado?
I would like to try this with my depression and anxiety and nightmare, do you have this program in New York! I need to try something new as other treatments I had didn’t work for me and I’m feeling worse! Thank you.
Same here , I’m in New York as well and would like to know how soon can it arrive here!