HEALTH

Utah veteran uses virtual reality to help others combat PTSD 

Nov 12, 2021, 1:32 PM

virtual reality...

Stock image of virtual reality glasses. Photo credit: Canva

AMERICAN FORK, Utah — Bric Simpson is using virtual reality (VR) headsets to help alleviate the symptoms of PTSD for his fellow veterans. 

It’s the work done by Forge Forward Project, a veteran-owned and operated nonprofit. It focuses on bringing doctors, therapists and fellow veterans together in a free virtual reality experience. 

Founded by Simpson, he said that with the help of VR a vet can immediately transport out of a stressful episode into a more calming and tranquil environment.

Through the use of VR, a veteran can consult mental health experts. And they can talk to their peers or play video games to calm their nerves.  

“The research that we are basing this on shows that just putting veterans in a virtual reality environment actually mitigated those stress responses to their brain by 56 to 90%.” 

He said VR makes it much easier for veterans to connect. And that’s true whether they are across the country from each other, or across the globe.  

“This not only has real healing aspects as far as physiological response goes, Or connecting to other health care professionals. It becomes peer to peer as well.”

The Forge Forward Project reports that 82% of American veterans report symptoms of PTSD. While they can vary widely, some of the common symptoms reported by veterans include recurring distressing memories, repeated dreams, flashbacks, and intense distress when exposed to reminders of the trauma.  

For more information on the Forge Forward Project,  visit their website here.

Keep reading:

We want to hear from you.

Have a story idea or tip? Send it to the KSL NewsRadio team here.

Health

(Canva)...

Michelle Lee

How to identify and prevent substance use disorder

Let’s Get Moving Host Maria Shilaos spoke with the HEART Initiative's Tim Keady to learn how to spot the signs of substance use disorder.

12 hours ago

A study found high levels of plastic chemicals in multiple food items....

Eric Cabrera

Study finds foods with high levels of plastic chemicals, Fairlife protein shake tops list

Study reveals plastic chemicals in several foods. Fairlife Core's chocolate protein shake tops list.

2 days ago

Reminder to set your clocks back, Daylight Saving comes to an end this weekend and with the change ...

Michael Camit and Diana Jones

How could daylight saving impact you?

Daylight saving comes to an end this weekend. While we'll get an extra hour of sleep, the change can cause a big hit to our health.

4 days ago

A dairy cow is pictured at a dairy farm in Corrine on Tuesday, July 23, 2024....

Simone Seikaly

Some Utah dairy facilities quarantined after avian flu detected

Utah officials have confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in eight Cache County dairy facilities.

4 days ago

Image of a child in costume holding a plastic pumpkin dish filled with Halloween candy. Concern for...

Sam Herrera

It’s candy season, but what does all that added sugar mean for our health?

Sugar is a part of everyone's diet and can provide an important function. But, foods with added sugar usually don't have other nutrients.

5 days ago

Pumpkin soup...

Mariah Maynes

USU Extension recommends eating pumpkin, calls it “superfood”

Utah State University's Extension recommends incorporating pumpkin into your diet as it It contains several beneficial nutrients.

5 days ago

Sponsored Articles

4 construction workers fixing roof against clouds blue sky, install shingles at the top of the hous...

Chipman Roofing

Weather the storms by maintaining your roof

By taking the time to assess your roof's condition and make repairs as needed, you maintain the longevity of your home's stability.

Tax Harassment...

Law Offices of Jordan F. Wilcox

Feeling intimidated by the IRS? 6 Essential facts you should know.

If you are receiving threatening letters and wage garnishments from the IRS, hiring an attorney can help ensure your rights are protected.

Photo courtesy of Nightmare on 13th...

Nightmare on 13th

Here’s why Nightmare on 13th is the best haunted house in Utah

Fall brings Halloween, and Halloween brings Haunted Houses. There’s no better Haunted House than Nightmare on 13th – here’s why!

USA, Utah, Bear Lake. The deep blue of Utah's Bear Lake contrasts with autumn foliage....

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

Experience Bear Lake’s all-year activities

We break down Bear Lake's four-season recreational offerings so the whole family can enjoy their time there any time of the year.

Water park with a vintage VW bug in front with a surfboard on top...

Cowabunga Bay

Spend the last days of summer at Cowabunga Bay! 

Cowabunga Bay is one of Utah's premier water parks that features water slides, a lazy river, a kids' cove, and a beach with lounge chairs.

A young woman smiles while reading the menu at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying the panoramic view o...

Bear Lake Convention & Visitors Bureau

The best restaurants to try in Bear Lake

Save this guide to the best restaurants in Bear Lake when you need to find a place to dine during your next visit.

Utah veteran uses virtual reality to help others combat PTSD