Virtual reality (VR) may be the next big thing in computer games, but the state-of-the-art technology could also combat depression.
Scientists believe putting patients in a simulated environment where they 'dive' in coral reefs, 'ride' trains through forests or 'celebrate' their favourite football team's glory could boost their mood.
The technique is thought to help overcome anhedonia, when a patient loses the ability to enjoy pleasurable activities - a common symptom of depression.
By coaching patients to observe the positive things happening around them, the scientists hope they will be more motivated to plan fun activities and take the time to 'soak up' everyday tasks.
Scientists believe putting depressed patients in a simulated environment where they 'celebrate' their football team's glory could help them overcome their symptoms (stock)
The scientists, from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), are conducting two experiments to determine if VR boosts a depressed patient's mood.
The research is being led by Professor Michelle Craske, director of the Anxiety and Depression Research Center at UCLA.
Depression is the leading cause of disability in those aged 15-to-44 in the US and affects more than 16.1million American adults every year, according to the Anxiety and Depression Society of America.
And in the UK, 19.7 per cent of people over 16 showed symptoms of depression or anxiety in 2014, Mental Health Foundation statistics reveal.
To get to the bottom of VR's affect in anhedonia sufferers, the researchers first put six patients in a simulated environment most would consider pleasurable.
In a technique known as positive affect therapy, counsellors then explained in detail every aspect of the situation.
For example if the simulated environment was a gallery, the patient was allowed to take in the art before speaking to a therapist about the vivid shades in a painting and how relaxed their shoulders felt while looking at it.
MRI scans were also taken to determine if the patient's brain underwent any functional changes. Results of the experiment have yet to be analysed but the scientists are hopeful.
The researchers are now looking at dozens of anxiety and depression sufferers who battle anhedonia. To make VR more accessible, these patients have had the technology uploaded onto their phones to use at home.
The patients have been asked to observe their thoughts, emotions and physical reactions while, for example, being taken on a gondola ride in Venice.
They will complete 13 sessions, each followed by a guided mindfulness course to reinforce the idea that certain situations can be pleasurable.
Virtual reality
