Virtual Reality For Anhedonia Program

Tech ID: 31976 / UC Case 2019-812-0

Summary

UCLA researchers in the Department of Psychology have developed a behavioral training program for the improvement of anhedonia.

Background

Anhedonia, or the loss of interest or pleasure in activities, is a symptom often found in depression and other mental health disorders. Despite the strong correlation of anhedonia with suicidal ideation, current treatments for mental disorders decrease negative affect but do not treat anhedonia directly. There is a need to develop treatments to improve anhedonia in individuals.

Innovation

UCLA researchers have developed a behavioral training program that treats anhedonia using virtual reality (VR) and memory training. By implementing a behavior training program in VR, individuals can experience controlled immersive experiences that are designed to promote motivation and interest. These positive experiences combined with memory recounting (or memory specificity training), can improve anhedonia.

Applications

  • Treating anhedonia
  • Suicide prevention

Advantages

  • Controlled experiences to promote motivation

Related Materials

Patent Status

Country Type Number Dated Case
United States Of America Published Application 20220151551 05/19/2022 2019-812
 

Contact

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Inventors

  • Craske, Michelle G.

Other Information

Keywords

Anhedonia, Depression, Mental Health, Substance Abuse, Anxiety, Suicide, Virtual Reality, Behavioral Training

Categorized As