Skip to content

Benefits of VR

What VR can offer, and where it stops.

Immersive technology opens up new possibilities for moments of calm and reflection. Be aware that VR is not a miracle cure and not always more effective than existing approaches. It depends very much on the person. A transparent overview of VR in mental health.

Possible benefits

Seven reasons to explore VR.

These benefits describe what VR may be able to offer. How much added value it brings varies by person, application and context.

Click a benefit to read more.

A white Meta Quest 3 VR headset

One headset, seven possibilities

  • 01Immersion and presence

    VR can make you feel as if you are really somewhere else. Everyday distractions can then temporarily fade into the background.

  • 02A designed, defined environment

    What you see and hear has been carefully composed. Pace, colour and sound can be tuned to calm or reflection.

  • 03Individual experiences

    A personal experience without social pressure. For some people, that makes it easier to reflect on themselves.

  • 04Image and sound together

    Visual worlds and soundscapes reinforce each other and can deepen the experience.

  • 05Focused attention

    A guided experience can direct attention: to the surroundings, the breath or a question for reflection.

  • 06Flexible to use

    From a moment of calm at work to part of a supported programme, depending on the context.

  • 07Potentially accessible

    For people who find it hard to talk about mental health, an experience can be an accessible first step.

Limits

What to bear in mind.

Responsible use starts with knowing the limitations.
  • Not for everyone

    Some people find VR unpleasant or are better off not using it for medical reasons.

  • Cybersickness

    Dizziness, nausea or tired eyes can occur, especially with movement in VR.

  • Hardware needed

    A VR headset is required, which brings costs and practical organisation.

  • Digital privacy

    Usage data, and certainly health-related data, must be carefully protected.

  • Evidence and safeguards

    Clinical use requires appropriate evidence, support and clear agreements.

  • Not a replacement for care

    VR does not replace a GP, psychologist or other healthcare professional.

Perspective

A complement, not a replacement.

VR is not by definition more effective than a walk, a conversation or a proven treatment. It is a different tool, with its own possibilities and its own groups of people who enjoy it. The value of VR in mental health often lies in the combination: an immersive experience as a complement.

View the research
A hand holding a Dream Fiction mug with a colourful calf, in front of a flip chart with a worked-out plan

Free on-site demo

Discover for yourself how VR feels.

The best way to understand the possibilities and limits is to experience it yourself. We are happy to visit you for a free demo.