Virtual reality-based training for mental health staff: a novel approach to increase empathy, compassion, and subjective understanding of service user experience

Virtual reality-based training for mental health staff: a novel approach to increase empathy, compassion, and subjective understanding of service user experience (Riches et al., 2022)

Aims: To outline the advantages of VR-based simulation training for mental health professionals in building empathy.

Method: By using enhanced experiential learning technology, subjective understanding is elicited and evaluated, which promotes empathy and compassion.

Findings: Service users are likely to benefit significantly from an increase in empathy in the workforce. Increasing empathy in nursing is associated with reducing restrictive practices and reducing tension between staff and patients.

Contributions: This article underscores the need for increased investment and resources to make this innovative training more widely available, addressing economic viability concerns.

Additional Information:

• Using AR To Reduce Restrictive Practices | Maudsley Learning
• Inter-professional simulation training for community mental health teams: findings from a mixed methods study

This article is open access at the weblink indicated.