eGGZ

Experience that uses VR to build confidence in people suffering from depression

Challenge

How can we make sure that we include practitioners into real life? When you are depressed, it can be hard to have a positive mindset. Depressed people often make false assumptions such as "This is me" or "This person must be angry”. Cognitive behavioural therapy teaches you to recognise automatic, negative thoughts and to think alternative thoughts instead. An important part of this therapy is practising in real life. It is unfortunate, however, that a practitioner can never be around.

Solution

On behalf of eGGZ, IJsfontein developed Lunchroom Zondag. Lunchroom Zondag is a VR experience where you deal with everyday situations in a safe environment under the guidance of your therapist. In Lunchroom Zondag, you play the role of a waiter in a lunchroom where you will be confronted with a variety of situations. Some customers interact with you, others just share their thoughts.

How does this affect you?

In both cases, you are challenged to come up with alternative thoughts. Using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy in this way increases self-confidence and clients experience that different/alternative thoughts have an effect on their feelings and behaviour. You can experiment freely and the therapist decides when the game is over.

Impact

Lunchroom Zondag builds confidence in depressed people and lets them experience how a different way of thinking can positively affect their feelings and behaviour. The VR experience has even received a Serious Game Keurmerk.