Artificial intelligence (AI) supports Veterans’ whole health
Primary care providers across the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system are introducing virtual reality to Veterans as a new way to manage stress, reduce anxiety and support their overall health. VA providers are turning to VR to create immersive environments that support relaxation and distract from pain. The technology also offers controlled exposure to stress-inducing scenarios in a safe setting.
Monitored VR sessions give Veterans a safe setting to practice calming techniques or confront anxiety-provoking situations. In this VA video, a Veteran meets with his primary care provider to talk about how anxiety may be affecting his blood pressure. Instead of only adjusting medications, the provider suggests trying something new: a guided VR session designed to promote calm breathing and relaxation.
Wearing a VR headset, the Veteran is transported to a peaceful, virtual setting where guided prompts help slow his breathing and focus his thoughts.
“It actually helps calm my nervous system,” the Veteran says in the video. “When I put the headset on, it’s like I’m in another world and that gives me a chance to reset.”
A new tool in the exam room
Primary care providers say VR offers another way to support Veterans during routine visits. The immersive experience can help Veterans practice relaxation techniques in real time, right in the clinic.
“We have more tools now to help our Veterans feel grounded and supported,” a VA primary care provider shares in the video. “When we combine VR with traditional care, we see stronger engagement from patients.”
VR does not replace medication or therapy. Instead, it adds another layer of support. For some Veterans, learning stress-management skills in a virtual environment makes it easier to use those skills at home.
“It doesn’t take away everything,” the Veteran reflects, “but it gives me space to breathe.”
Supporting Whole Health
VA’s Whole Health approach focuses on both physical and mental well-being. Stress and anxiety can affect many areas of health, including sleep, blood pressure, and chronic pain. By offering VR as part of a care plan, providers help Veterans build skills to better manage those challenges.
The goal is simple: give Veterans practical tools that support healing, inside and outside the clinic.
As technology continues to evolve, providers across VA are exploring new ways to combine innovation with compassionate care, helping Veterans feel supported every step of the way. VR may soon become a routine part of Veteran healthcare, offering immersive support where traditional methods sometimes fall short.
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The headline says AI but the article is about VR. I get they’re both 2 letter acronyms but c’mon.
They don’t even have Women’s Health at my local VA, but we’re doing “VR” therapy? How ridiculous. You have to do better VA! Women waiting 3+ months for community care gyn appointment is not acceptable!!!
Rad! I was a part of this study a while back, to see if this tech was viable for Veterans.
Gald to see it getting rolled out for usage.
I totally agree. The breathing exercises does calm you. Their are many options on the headset, some are free and some you have to pay for. You can meet and talk to other people right from your home. You can fish, hunt, play all kinds of games with others right in the comfort of your home. Lastly visit destinations you always dreamed of visiting. I love it, and don’t understand others not having one. It’s a game changer.
I’ve encountered no referral or offer to utilize VR by my primary or specialty care physicians for assisting in dealing with panic, high blood pressure, Depression, or anything else.
But I’m glad the VA is touting it in their official website News. Maybe others can find help beyond medications alone for dealing with their issues.
Can the VA pay for us to have one if we have depression or anxiety as service connection disability?
We can afford VR headsets, but gender affirming care that saves lives, nah, not worth it. Good job guys. ??????
Oh please! ?
1 is a A problem no one has a choice over but has to continue to deal with it
2 is a problem someone choose to deal with and expect others to make it happen for them instead of continuing live with it or “deal with it”
Take this seriously. Your choice to change your gender shouldn’t be forced on others to accept. If its your choice then make it just you. Not everyone else. Just You. Now if you need counseling or help with stuff that may be bothering you that isnt your choice then please seek help and assistance.