Could this VR headset hold the key to vocational recovery?

Launched in August, a new virtual reality tool is designed to help young people into work after mental ill-health — all from inside a VR headset.

VR4VR (Virtual Reality for Vocational Recovery), which launched at Veritas House in Orange on 28 August, simulates real workplace scenarios using VR technology, giving young people engaged with supported employment programs an opportunity to practise and learn in a safe, controlled environment. Developed in the extended reality (XR) lab at Orygen and supported by TAL Community Foundation, a launch is also planned at Youth Focus in Perth in September — meaning VR4VR is expected to help around 20 young people in a pilot trial this year.

According to Senior Research Fellow Dr Jennifer Nicholas, who leads the project, the VR4VR program was a natural evolution of the Orygen XR lab’s work using immersive technology in mental health settings. “Orygen’s extended reality program is world-leading, and applying it to vocational recovery was an obvious next step,” Nicholas said. “Employment is a crucial part of recovery for young people, and VR4VR helps them prepare for the realities of work, while supporting their wellbeing.

Trying the new VR4VR headset.

There are three VR4VR sessions that each come with a different scenario. They are: approaching potential employers — from what to wear to what to say; managing difficult situations — including how to navigate a difficult customer; and reasonable adjustments — how to advocate for yourself in the workplace to ensure best results for you and your employer. “Young people have told us they want more digital tools to support their mental health, and with TAL’s support we have been able to create an innovative, evidence-informed program that will boost young people’s skills for gaining and maintaining employment,” Nicholas said.

VR4VR cafe scene.

Designed to complement the support already provided by employment specialists working in mental health services, following the pilot, the Orygen team intends to expand VR4VR — to enable more young people to access the program via other youth and community partners nationally. “Mental ill-health is a significant challenge facing a growing number of young Australians and it requires new approaches,” said Alex Homer, TAL’s Chief Executive Customer and Brand as well as Chair of TAL Community Foundation. “We’re proud to back Orygen’s innovative work using technology to help empower young people to build confidence, gain skills, and thrive in life and work.”

Images: Orygen and TAL