ISSN : 2663-2187

Investigating the impact of virtual reality on individuals facing substance addiction throughout their treatment process: a narrative review study

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Abstract

Drug addiction is a chronic relapsing disorder(1) and one of the most critical public health problems in the world(2) that affects brain function and behavior, resulting in an inability to control drug use(3). The consumption of substances to achieve feelings of euphoria dates back to ancient history; the Sumerians consumed opium for happiness, while Native South Americans began chewing coca leaves for energy around 3,000 years ago (4). Drug addiction is closely linked to behavioral and social factors, which are crucial components of the disease. This includes addiction to tobacco, alcohol, and both direct and indirect drug use, leading to 11.8 million deaths globally each year. According to the Global Burden of Disease Study, this figure exceeds the number of cancer deaths and accounts for one-fifth of all global mortality(1). Genetics account for 40 to 60 percent of addiction risk, and social and environmental factors play a critical role in this chronic disease(4). The impact of this issue is compounded by stressors such as family breakdown, unemployment, and job-related stress(3). As rates of addiction continue to rise, a variety of pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments have been developed to effectively address the associated problems

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