Substance use disorders (SUDs) and addictive behaviors pose significant challenges worldwide. One key aspect of SUDs is craving, defined as an intense desire or urge to consume a substance. Craving plays a crucial role in addiction and relapse rates, making it a prime target for therapeutic interventions. In recent years, virtual reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool for managing craving in individuals with SUDs. This article explores the use of VR in controlling craving among Tunisian students with cannabis use disorder (CUD).

Objective:

The objective of this study is twofold: to identify and create virtual environments that elicit craving among Tunisian students with CUD and to evaluate the effectiveness of these virtual environments in controlling craving.

"The integration of virtual reality as a therapeutic tool in addressing craving among Tunisian students with cannabis use disorder is a groundbreaking approach. Witnessing the presentation of this thesis has truly shown the potential of virtual reality in empowering individuals to overcome addiction. It is an innovative solution that holds the promise of revolutionizing the landscape of addiction treatment and providing hope for a better tomorrow."

Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT):

VRT involves exposing individuals to immersive 3D or 360° virtual environments that contain substance-related cues. Through repeated exposure, guided by a therapist, individuals can gain control over their craving by understanding, rejecting, and abstaining from psychoactive substance use. VRT provides a safe and controlled setting for individuals to confront craving-inducing stimuli.

Significance of Virtual Reality in CUD:

Cannabis use disorder is a public health concern in Tunisia, with significant prevalence among the population. Craving plays a critical role in maintaining cannabis consumption and inhibiting recovery efforts. Addressing craving is crucial for successful intervention. Virtual reality offers a novel approach to tackle craving, providing therapists with an innovative tool for therapeutic and preventive management of CUD.

Benefits of Virtual Reality in CUD Treatment:

1. Realistic Exposure: Virtual environments can accurately simulate substance-related stimuli, intensifying the craving response.
2. Safe and Controlled Environment: VRT creates a secure space for individuals to experience craving without the risks associated with real-life exposure to illicit substances.
3. Enhanced Therapeutic Efficacy: VRT can be used in conjunction with traditional cognitive-behavioral therapies, boosting treatment outcomes and facilitating relapse prevention.
4. Ethical Considerations: VRT circumvents ethical concerns related to in vivo exposure to illicit substances, particularly in contexts with legal restrictions.

This study seeks to contribute to the advancement of innovative therapeutic approaches for managing CUD among Tunisian students. By harnessing the potential of virtual reality in controlling craving, we aim to empower individuals to overcome addiction and lead healthier lives. Further research and implementation of VRT in Tunisia can offer valuable insights into its effectiveness and broaden treatment options for individuals with CUD.