Harnessing digital health for anxiety disorders: apps, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality

Virtual reality (VR) and digital interventions are opening up new avenues in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Building on established cognitive behavioural approaches, VR-based exposure enables highly controllable, safe, and yet realistic confrontation with anxiety-provoking stimuli. In parallel, internet- and app-based programmes expand access to care through low-threshold, flexible interventions that are independent of time and location. This presentation provides an overview of the current state of research on the efficacy, acceptability, and implementation of these technologies in anxiety disorders. Particular attention is given to the question of which patient groups are most likely to benefit from digital formats and how these can be integrated into existing healthcare systems. Opportunities and limitations are also discussed, including considerations around the therapeutic alliance, data protection, and long-term outcomes. Emerging evidence suggests that VR-assisted interventions can achieve effect sizes comparable to traditional exposure, while digital self-help programmes may help to reduce the treatment gap. Finally, future developments are outlined, including personalised interventions, integration with wearable devices, and the use of artificial intelligence for adaptive treatment delivery. The contribution is aimed at clinicians and researchers interested in innovative, evidence-based approaches to the treatment of anxiety disorders.