Using virtual reality to help people recover from stimulant use disorder
Virtual Reality-Augmented Future Orientation in Stimulant Use Disorder Recovery
This study is exploring how virtual reality can help people recovering from stimulant use disorder by making it easier for them to imagine and plan for a better future, which can support their recovery journey.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Indiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Indianapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10830977 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a virtual reality intervention designed to assist individuals recovering from stimulant use disorder by enhancing their ability to visualize and plan for the future. The approach focuses on improving future self-identification and the ability to delay gratification, which are often impaired in those with substance use disorders. Participants will engage in personalized immersive experiences that aim to strengthen their recovery efforts and increase the likelihood of sustained abstinence. The study builds on preliminary findings that suggest this intervention may significantly improve recovery outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in the early stages of recovery from stimulant use disorder who are seeking additional support to maintain abstinence.
Not a fit: Patients who are not currently recovering from stimulant use disorder or those who have not engaged in treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective recovery strategies for individuals with stimulant use disorder, potentially increasing their chances of long-term abstinence.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary tests of similar virtual reality interventions have shown promising results, indicating potential efficacy in improving recovery outcomes for stimulant use disorder.
Where this research is happening
Indianapolis, United States
- Indiana University Indianapolis — Indianapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Oberlin, Brandon — Indiana University Indianapolis
- Study coordinator: Oberlin, Brandon
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.