Effects of Virtual Reality Software on Levels of Stigma Towards People With Mental Illness: An Experimental Study.

Stigma towards people with mental illness represents a serious public health problem worldwide and is considered the main barrier in the social inclusion and participation of affected people, which has a negative impact on their quality of life, determining even a higher risk of suicide and mortality, along with a lower life expectancy compared to the unaffected population.

Faced with the high levels of stigmatization present in society, several initiatives and studies have been conducted worldwide focused on its reduction, where it has been shown that direct contact with people with psychiatric illnesses and education are key and effective interventions, especially when conducted and focused on strategic groups, such as professionals and students in training.

Despite the fact that direct contact and activities in which participants and users share thoughts and experiences around mental health have been shown to be key to the success of these programs, their implementation in virtual learning spaces is recent, particularly for university students.

Thus, several authors have shown that innovative interventions using new technologies, such as the use of video games, the application of virtual reality, the use of simulated actors and e-contact through virtual media with mental health users, are effective tools in developing various skills, tools and fostering an inclusive attitude with a focus on reducing prejudice and stigma towards individuals with severe mental disorders.

Despite this, there is currently a gap in knowledge about the effects of virtual reality programs focused on decreasing stigma towards people with psychiatric illnesses.