Pan-Hellenic 2025: Mental Health, Virtual Reality, and Study Programs

It is widely acknowledged that in recent years, especially since the onset of the pandemic, there has been a rise in the number of people struggling with mental health issues. The focus on mental health challenges is more intense than ever before, with specialists such as psychiatrists and psychologists contributing significantly to addressing or even preventing these problems. Concurrently, technology, particularly artificial intelligence and virtual reality, continues to evolve at an unprecedented rate. Combining mental health professions with these modern technological fields could ease the overall situation, from stress reduction to depression treatment. While smartphones and social media are often criticized for reducing quality of life and causing screen addiction, researchers at the World Economic Forum (2023) suggest that proper use can help build connections in virtual spaces, combating the mental health crisis. Examples include brain simulations in neuroscience and neurotechnology, virtual reality therapies, and therapeutic video games that promote mental well-being. For those interested in pursuing careers in psycho-technology and innovative mental health applications, various educational pathways exist, including degrees in Computer Science, Information Technology, and specialized postgraduate programs blending mental health and technology.