Introduction to Augmented Reality Therapy
Therapy which uses virtual technology is being tested as a method of supporting teenagers with anxiety and people who struggle to attend school. Cardiff Youth Service, a part of Cardiff council’s education department, has helped to check and develop a mobile app which uses augmented reality (AR) as an intervention for anxiety and social isolation.
How the Technology Works
AR is an interactive experience where your real-world environment is augmented, added to or enhanced using computer generated content. The app uses gaming technology to permit an adolescent to design a flower and select a structure to support its growth and weather conditions. Users can then superimpose the digital images onto their physical surroundings using their device.
Development of the App
Counsellor Angela Mcmillan, who developed the AR therapy app, said the thought got here from support sessions with young people within the south Wales valleys who had been struggling to attend school resulting from anxiety and social isolation. "I’m really curious as to how we are able to use technology for good," she said. "Instead of considering of it as something we do by ourselves, how might we use technology where we’re then in a position to share that with the person next to us?"
Testing the App
A bunch of young people who find themselves supported by Cardiff Youth Service were the primary to check the AR app. Lili, 16, said: "It’s easy to make use of because you possibly can separate it from yourself. It’s easier to have a look at your emotions from an out of doors perspective. I believe it could possibly be helpful for lots of people. If someone didn’t really like talking then it could possibly be like an ice-breaker to open up conversations with their counsellor. I believe it could be particularly useful for individuals with social anxiety." Jonas, 15, said: "The thoughts of the day’s experiences are going through my mind as I’m selecting the various things. It’s creative and I’ve never seen something like this before."
Results and Future Plans
Initial results from the AR therapy application show "a big reduction in levels of hysteria" amongst young people, in keeping with Ms Mcmillan. It is hoped the technology will help certain individuals, particularly those that are neurodivergent, to feel more comfortable using images to specific how they’re feeling. The app can be piloted in some schools in Cardiff and Swansea, with the goal of accelerating social connection and reducing anxiety.
Supporting Mental Health and Wellbeing
Digital health interventions which support mental health and wellbeing are used worldwide. The Children’s Commissioner for Wales, Rocio Cifuentes, said school attendance remained "a giant problem" because the number of kids missing greater than 10% of their education had doubled for the reason that pandemic. "I believe it’s really necessary to be considering any intervention which is evidence based and is showing to be effective but I also think it is important to hearken to children and young people and what they need."
Conclusion
The use of augmented reality therapy is a promising development within the support of teenagers with anxiety and people who struggle to attend school. With its interactive and artistic approach, the app has shown significant potential in reducing anxiety and increasing social connection. As the technology continues to evolve, it’s more likely to play an increasingly necessary role in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of young people. By providing a cushty and interesting way for young people to specific their emotions and connect with others, the app is a helpful tool within the fight against anxiety and social isolation.
