Use of virtual reality technologies as an Action-Cue Exposure Therapy for truck drivers suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

This work describes a truck-driving simulator designed for the care of truckers suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This simulator exploits a new approach using virtual reality (VR) technologies in the treatment of PTSD. Indeed, we exploit full capabilities of VR technologies to not only expose the user to the frightening stimuli but also to allow him to be active in this environment that may contain anxiety-provoking stimuli. These two aspects are supported throughout a gamification process where the game mechanics are mapped to the expected learning mechanics. Moreover, the developed simulator is fully customizable. Two truck drivers suffering from PTSD have experimented it. The intervention allowed a desensitization and a verbalization of fears associated to the past trauma.