Bergolis Project: Virtual Reality in the Service of Phobia Therapy

Spotify

Bergolis is an innovative virtual reality video game designed to assist in the treatment of phobias through exposure therapy and biofeedback. Created by a multidisciplinary team, the project combines programming, design, and scientific principles to provide an interactive and gradual approach to facing fears.

Currently, the game already includes specific scenarios to address fear of the dark and vertigo, allowing users to confront their fears progressively and safely. To enhance the therapeutic experience, Bergolis integrates relaxation zones accessible at any time, ensuring continuous support for the user.

The impact of the project has already been recognised with second place in the Play Your Idea competition at Lusófona University, standing out for its feasibility and potential in the field of mental health. Furthermore, it received support from the Faculty of Nursing of Porto and the Psychosocial Rehabilitation Laboratory of Porto, which contributed to the game's scientific validation.

More than just a technological innovation, Bergolis was designed to be used under therapeutic supervision, reinforcing its effectiveness in treating phobias. With this approach, the project paves the way for new applications in the field of digital mental health, showcasing the potential of virtual reality as a therapeutic tool.