Objective: People with anorexia nervosa (AN) experience high levels of fear and anxiety related to eating. The aim of this case report was to describe the use of a virtual reality (VR) programme developed to facilitate exposure to food as a supplement to treatment for a person with AN.
Method: A 21-year-old patient with AN was given the VR module in addition to the Maudsley Model of Treatment for Adults with Anorexia Nervosa. Weight, eating disorder symptomatology (EDE-Q) and general psychopathology (DASS) were assessed before and after the module was delivered.
Results: At the end of the module, the patient reported lower levels of anxiety, safety behaviours and fears related to food. Both eating disorder symptoms and distress were reduced. Body mass index increased from 15 to 16.8 kg/m² during the module.
Conclusion: The VR exposure module was associated with a beneficial change in the relationship to food and was perceived to be helpful by the individual.
Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.