EASYHEiGHTS 2.0

What is EASYHEiGHTS and what are its potential applications?

EASYHEiGHTS is a virtual reality (VR) application designed to simulate height environments in a controlled setting. Its primary aim is to facilitate acclimatization to heights, thereby enabling users to manage height-related anxiety more effectively and reduce fear responses.

Who is EASYHEiGHTS intended for?

• Individuals aged 16 and above experiencing mild, clinically insignificant acrophobia.

Technical specifications for using EASYHEiGHTS

• The application functions in conjunction with wireless VR goggles via a smartphone platform, allowing for convenient use in a home environment.

Development background of EASYHEiGHTS

The EASYHEiGHTS VR app was developed by the University of Basel as part of a scientific initiative to assist individuals in overcoming fears associated with heights. The program employs exposure therapy principles, which have been validated through scientific research. The virtual scenarios are created using 360° images captured by drone footage of authentic locations, providing realistic simulations of being at height.

Effectiveness of the intervention has been evaluated through a randomized controlled trial conducted by the University of Basel. Participants either completed four hours of VR-based height training or served as controls. Pre- and post-intervention assessments included a climb up the Uetliberg observation tower near Zurich, with fear levels measured during the ascent. Results demonstrated that participants who underwent EASYHEiGHTS training experienced a 49% reduction in fear and increased their climbing height compared to baseline, with findings comparable to traditional exposure therapies. The control group showed no significant improvement. Details of the study can be accessed here: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41746-021-00387-7

Operational mechanics of EASYHEiGHTS training

• During use, users stand on a virtual platform that initially reaches 1 meter above ground level. As the user adapts, the platform gradually elevates additional meters in increments aligned with their tolerance, allowing for gradual desensitization.
• The application offers three distinct scenarios: mountain landscape, forest edge, and urban environment. Each scenario comprises 15 levels, beginning at 1 meter and progressing to a maximum height of 75 meters.
• Progression is contingent upon user-reported fear levels; the platform advances only when minimal or no fear is experienced at the current level. Users cannot regress to lower levels but can terminate sessions anytime by removing their VR goggles.
• The platform's elevation increases predictably—initially by 1 meter per level, with larger jumps at advanced stages.
• The environment is controlled via gaze direction, and instructions are provided prior to each session to guide user engagement.

For further inquiries regarding the EASYHEiGHTS VR application or support, contact details are as follows:

• University of Basel
• Transfaculty Research Platform
• Molecular and Cognitive Neurosciences (MCN)
• Birmannsgasse 8, 4055 Basel, Switzerland
• https://mcn.unibas.ch