New VR Initiative Aims to Boost Mental Health in Northern Saskatchewan

A groundbreaking virtual reality (VR) initiative aimed at improving the mental health of Indigenous youth in northern Saskatchewan is set to launch. The program, titled Virtual Interventions and Community Connections for Indigenous Youth (VICCIY), has been under development since 2021 and has evolved significantly based on feedback from young people about their specific needs and preferences.

Lindsey Boechler, the initiative lead at VICCIY, emphasized the importance of youth input in shaping the program. She noted that many young people expressed enthusiasm for using VR technology. “What really intrigues the youth is exploring different ways to connect and meet others or learn from role models,” Boechler stated.

As part of its development, VICCIY has organized two provincial youth summits, which gathered over 60 youth from across Saskatchewan. During these summits, a key topic of discussion was the potential role of VR technology in promoting well-being. Boechler reported that 98 percent of participants indicated they would be willing to engage with VR or try it out.

Youth advocate Joey Genereaux, who has collaborated with VICCIY, highlighted the transformative potential of VR programming. He believes it can make a significant impact on the lives of young people in northern communities. “I think this virtual stuff is going to be an amazing thing to connect with these kids in the north that really need the help, to inspire them to make different changes in their lives,” he said.

VICCIY is currently in Phase 2 of its rollout. This fall, six northern communities will participate in the program during the academic year. The emphasis on youth conversations was a vital aspect of the program’s creation. Boechler hopes that this approach will become a standard practice for similar initiatives in the future. “When we are trying to support this generation that’s going to lead our province, I think it’s imperative we really start listening,” she remarked.

The initiative is poised to not only provide valuable resources to Indigenous youth but also foster a sense of community and connection through innovative technology. As VICCIY moves forward, its commitment to engaging with young people and addressing their needs remains at the forefront of its mission.