By: SFU Innovates
Can Virtual Reality Help Drug Addiction Recovery
This article was originally written and submitted as part of a Canada 150 Project, the Innovation Storybook, to crowdsource stories of Canadian innovation with partners across Canada. The content has since been migrated to Ingenium’s Channel, a digital hub featuring curated content related to science, technology and innovation.
Simon Fraser University (SFU) professor Farnak Farzan from the School of Mechatronic Systems Engineering is leading cutting edge research in neuro-engineering, virtual reality and psychiatry to develop solutions to diagnose and develop recovery-focused treatments for youth struggling with addiction and mental health issues. Farzan was recently named the inaugural chair in Technology Innovations for Youth Addiction Recovery and Mental Health.
Farzan will also have a role with the City of Surrey’s Youth Mental Health initiative. She will work with stakeholders from universities, government, health authorities, civil services and social service agencies to create a Youth Mental Health strategy, focusing on substance use and addiction recovery. Farzan will also be partnering closely with John Volken Academy to pilot and test these innovations.
SFU Innovates
SFU Innovates is a university-wide strategy that builds on our dynamic culture and seeks to strengthen SFU's commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship.
Based on Simon Fraser University's vision to be Canada’s engaged university, SFU Innovates helps students and researchers mobilize their ideas for positive social and economic impact.
