Virtual Reality Exposure Therapy in the Treatment of Alcohol Use Disorder

Launched by UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA · Apr 23, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring two different types of therapy to help people with alcohol use disorder—one is called acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and the other is virtual reality exposure therapy (VRET). The goal is to see which therapy is more effective in reducing a person's need for alcohol and helping them avoid returning to drinking after treatment. The study will involve 120 men aged 18 to 55 who have just finished a two-week detox program. Participants will be divided into three groups: one will receive VRET, another will receive ACT, and the last group will continue with standard treatment.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be hospitalized with a diagnosis of alcohol use disorder, be right-handed, and have a minimum education level of junior high school. They should also have normal eyesight. However, individuals with a history of using other drugs, mental health issues, or serious physical illnesses won't be able to participate. Throughout the study, assessments will take place at several points: right after the therapy ends, and then again at 12 weeks and 24 weeks later to track progress. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, but it aims to offer new insights into the treatment of alcohol use disorder.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Hospitalized patients diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (confirmed by the relevant diagnostic criteria of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders-V).
• • 2. Male, age 18 to 55 years old, Han nationality, junior high school education or above, right-handed (because of the difference in EEG between right-hand and left-hand).
• • 3. Those with normal eyesight (including corrected vision).
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Those with current and lifetime history of abuse of any other psychoactive substances (except tobacco).
• • 2. Those with current and lifetime history of other mental diseases.
• • 3. Those with current and lifetime history of central nervous system diseases or serious physical illnesses.
• • 4. Those who are unable to complete the EEG detection or psychological scale assessment.
• • 5. Those who are unable to cooperate with ACT or VRET, or who are seriously uncomfortable with psychotherapy.