Trauma Treatment: Back to the Trenches with a VR Headset - Berlin's VR Therapy Helps Ukrainians Heal from War Trauma
Berlin's Charité hospital is using virtual reality to help Ukrainians suffering from PTSD. The treatment immerses patients in virtual recreations of traumatic war events, allowing them to confront their experiences in a controlled way. Early results suggest the technology is speeding up recovery for those affected by the conflict.
The VR-based exposure therapy works by guiding patients through carefully designed scenarios. Over ten sessions, they learn to endure triggers and process emotions without becoming overwhelmed. Six different virtual environments are currently available, tailored to the experiences of veterans and civilian survivors.
This research is part of the Ukraine project Solomiya, which aims to expand psychosocial care in the country. So far, 15 individuals have received the treatment, with plans to extend it to 200 within six months. The Charité is collaborating with six Ukrainian clinics, though on-site conditions—such as power outages, subzero temperatures, and bomb alarms—are making the work difficult.
While the method has only been tested on adults, researchers believe children could also benefit in the future. Customised scenarios would need to be developed to suit their needs.
The VR therapy offers a new approach to PTSD treatment, with early signs of faster improvement among patients. Despite logistical challenges, the project aims to reach more people in Ukraine over the coming months. If successful, the method could become a key tool in supporting trauma recovery across the country.
