In today’s fast-paced world, prioritising mental health is more important than ever. With constant demands on our time and energy, it’s essential to take a step back and focus on our emotional and psychological wellbeing. Fortunately, advancements in technology have brought new tools to support mental health, offering innovative ways to manage stress, reduce anxiety, and maintain emotional balance.

Let’s explore how augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are transforming mental health care and creating opportunities for self-care in profound ways.

VR and Mental Wellbeing

Virtual reality is opening doors to new therapeutic techniques by creating immersive environments that help people relax and de-stress. Apps like Tripp provide guided experiences that incorporate breathwork, sleep aids, and mindfulness practices, helping users calm their minds and center their thoughts.

At Harmony Studios, we’ve developed a unique Zen experience using a motion seat that gently guides users through a tranquil forest setting. The combination of 3D sound, digital interactions, and even scent helps create a fully immersive space, offering a powerful tool to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.

Beyond self-care, VR is also being used to treat specific mental health conditions like anxiety, PTSD, and depression. Companies like XRHealth have developed comprehensive VR-based therapies that address issues such as trauma, stress, and emotional imbalances. The immersive nature of VR allows individuals to confront fears, engage in stress reduction exercises, and practice coping mechanisms in a safe, controlled environment.

At Harmony Studios, we have been fortunate to collaborate on projects focused at improving mental health by creating VR 360 video captures of peaceful nature scenes. One such project originally designed for HMPS (His Majesty’s Prison Service), involved the creation of videos to provide inmates with a digital escape to serene environments, helping to foster a sense of calm and emotional stability. Integrating mindfulness techniques into these VR experiences aims to alleviate stress and support mental wellbeing—a powerful addition to any self-care routine.

At Harmony Studios, we’ve partnered with Coggi Technologies to create AR solutions specifically designed to enhance mental health in younger generations. Through the Coggi app, we’re engaging children with tools that promote emotional resilience and psychological wellbeing, preventing mental health challenges before they arise. This groundbreaking initiative has already earned DTAC approval, showcasing the potential of AR to nurture emotional health in a digitally native generation.

Fitness and Mental Health in AR and VR

Physical exercise plays a critical role in supporting mental health, and AR and VR applications have made exercising more engaging and enjoyable. Apps like Beat Saber blend rhythm with movement, turning exercise into a fun, interactive experience. There are also VR applications focused on boxing, meditation, and dance, making it easy to find a fitness routine that aligns with your mental health goals.

Similarly, AR fitness tools like FYTER bring workout routines directly to your space, enhancing both physical and mental health through engaging, tech-powered experiences.

Boosting Confidence and Self-Esteem

In the realm of self-care, mental health also includes how we feel about our appearance. AR tools like Virtual Try-On by L’Oréal Paris allow users to experiment with makeup and skincare products in real time, helping people find looks that boost their confidence and improve their emotional wellbeing. Feeling good about how we look can have a profound impact on our mental state, reinforcing positive self-image and reducing feelings of self-doubt.

Building Your Mental Health Routine with AR and VR

Here’s a simple guide to enhancing your mental health routine using AR and VR:

1. Identify your mental health needs – Reflect on the areas of your emotional wellbeing that need the most attention. Whether it’s reducing stress, improving mindfulness, or boosting self-confidence, identifying your needs will guide your approach.
2. Choose the right apps and tools – With so many options, it’s important to find AR and VR applications that suit your personal needs. Read reviews and test out different apps until you find ones that are intuitive and effective for you.
3. Set up your environment – Make sure you have a comfortable, distraction-free space when using these tools. Whether it’s a corner for mindfulness practices or enough room to engage in VR fitness, creating the right environment is key.
4. Integrate into your routine – Start small by incorporating these tools into your daily or weekly schedule. For instance, take 10 minutes to meditate with an app like Tripp or use a mindfulness AR tool during breaks.
5. Assess and adjust – Regularly evaluate how these tools are impacting your mental health. If something isn’t working, don’t hesitate to explore new applications or approaches. The goal is to build a sustainable routine that supports your mental wellbeing over time.

Conclusion

As AR and VR technologies continue to evolve, they are offering new ways to care for our mental health. From mindfulness and relaxation to confidence-building and physical fitness, these innovative solutions are making self-care more accessible, personalized, and effective. This World Mental Health Day, explore how AR and VR can become valuable tools in your mental health journey, helping you achieve emotional balance and overall wellbeing.