Virtual reality mental health project to offer new option for Hongkongers seeking help

A survey found that 71% of Hong Kong's locals polled experienced at least one symptom of social avoidance because of anxiety and depression. A new VR project teaches confidence by providing virtual reality environments.

A cutting-edge mental therapy that uses virtual reality to help patients overcome their social fears is being researched in Hong Kong – and 250 residents are being recruited to help.

In a press conference on Monday, organisers of the project – called Yes I Can – said test subjects would go traverse virtual reality (VR) environments that reflect everyday scenarios, like going to a cafe, convenience store or a doctor’s waiting room.