Giuseppe Riva

Silvia Serino

In the computer sciences, virtual reality (VR) is usually described as a set of fancy technologies. However, in medicine and neuroscience, VR is instead defined as an advanced form of human–computer interface that allows the user to interact with and become present in a computer-generated environment. The sense of presence offered by VR makes it a powerful tool for personal change because it offers a world where the individual can stay and live a specific experience. For this reason, the use of VR in mental health shows promise: different types of research support its clinical efficacy for conditions including anxiety disorders, stress-related disorders, obesity and eating disorders, pain management, addiction, and schizophrenia. However, more research is needed to transform VR according to a clinical standard for mental health. This Special Issue aims to present the most recent advances in the mental health applications of VR, as well as their implications for future patient care.

Virtual Reality in the Assessment, Understanding and Treatment of Mental Health Disorders

Pietro Cipresso

Daniela Villani

This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 9th International Conference on Pervasive Computing Paradigms for Mental Health, MindCare 2019, held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in April 2019. The 22 papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 38 submissions and present new paradigms in mental healthcare, in parallel with compelling questions about how it is possible to promote and structure these changes to improve physical well-being.

9th International Conference, MindCare 2019, Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 23–24, 2019, Proceedings

Pervasive Computing Paradigms for Mental Health

Yuri Ostrovsky

Justin T. Baker

This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Pervasive Computing Paradigms for Mental Health, MindCare 2018, held in Boston, MA, USA, Jin January 2018. The 19 papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 30 submissions and present advanced computing and communication technologies from the use of wearable sensors and ecological virtual environments to use of big data and machine learning techniques. These technologies can be used to support and promote the well-being through an objective continuous data collection and personalized

7th International Conference, MindCare 2018, Boston, MA, USA, January 9–10, 2018, Proceedings

Rosa Banos

Cristina Botella

Andrea Gaggioli

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the potential role that digital technologies can play in promoting well-being. Smartphones, wearable devices, virtual/augmented reality, social media, and the internet provide a wealth of useful tools and resources to support psychological interventions that facilitate positive emotions, resilience, personal growth, creativity, and social connectedness. Understanding the full extent of this potential, however, requires an interdisciplinary approach that integrates the scientific principles of well-being into the design of e-experiences that foster positive change. This book provides an overview of recent advances and future challenges in Positive Technology, an emergent field within human-computer interaction that seeks to understand how interactive technologies can be used in evidence-based well-being interventions. Its focus of analysis is two-fold: at the theoretical level, Positive Technology aims to develop conceptual frameworks and models for understanding how computers can be effectively used to help individuals achieve greater well-being. At the methodological and applied level, Positive Technology is concerned with the design, development, and validation of digital experiences that promote positive change through pleasure, flow, meaning, competence, and positive relationships.

Silvia Serino

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