Recognising the profound impact of motor vehicle crashes on mental health, we've taken a proactive stance to support our customers who suffer from psychological injuries post-accident. The Allianz Compulsory Third Party (CTP) insurance data shows a notable percentage of claims since 2020 have involved some form of psychological injury following a motor vehicle crash. These injuries often manifest as PTSD, with symptoms that can severely disrupt daily life. It can prevent someone from getting back in a vehicle and resuming everyday activities.
In recent years, the prevalence of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) among Australians has become increasingly evident. According to the National Study of Mental Health and Wellbeing 2020–2022, an estimated 11% of Australians experience PTSD at some point in their lives. That’s equivalent to 2.8 million people. Women are almost twice as likely to suffer from PTSD compared to men, with rates of 14% and 8%, respectively (ABS 2022). One significant trigger for PTSD is a motor vehicle crash. This can leave individuals involved with severe anxiety and an outright refusal to get back in a vehicle.
Using technology to address motor vehicle crash PTSD
To address this growing concern, we've partnered with the Sydney Phobia Clinic. We’ve developed an award-winning exposure therapy program designed to help customers overcome driving anxiety. This initiative, known as “VR therapy,” leverages the power of virtual reality to create safe, immersive experiences. It’s designed to allow customers to gradually regain their confidence in operating or being in a vehicle. This can be from the safety of a clinic or even their own home.
The program has already garnered industry recognition. It won the award for Innovation in Injury & Disability Management at the 2024 PIEF Excellence in Personal Injury and Disability Management Awards.
Promising program results and expanding accessibility
We’ve had over 100 customers experiencing psychological injuries after an accident engage in these virtual experiences. So far, the results are promising. Participants have reported significant improvements in their ability to manage anxiety and fear related to driving. The therapy involves exposing individuals to virtual driving scenarios in a controlled environment. This is to help them confront and overcome their fears step by step and give them the confidence to get back in a vehicle.
While the initial phase of the program was based out of a Sydney clinic, we’re committed to making this life-changing therapy accessible to all who need it. This includes those in rural and regional areas. To achieve this, we’ve also partnered with oVRcome, a smartphone-based VR therapy service, so customers can be helped from anywhere within Australia. This innovative solution provides equitable access to tech-enabled exposure-based therapies. It means that geographical location doesn’t have to be a barrier to receiving much-needed support.
In addition to the Sydney Phobia Clinic, the service is now available at the “Fear Less” phobia clinics in Sydney and Wollongong. This expansion shows our dedication to bringing human-centered innovations into the services we offer our CTP customers. By combining the cutting-edge technology of virtual reality with the clinical benefits of exposure therapy, we're helping to improve mental health support for our customers.
Giving customers their confidence back
Our VR therapy program represents a significant step forward in addressing the mental health challenges associated with motor vehicle crashes. It provides a safe and effective way for customers to confront their fears and regain their confidence, free from the debilitating effects of PTSD. This program shows our commitment to the wellbeing of our customers and willingness to embrace innovative solutions to meet their needs. We’re excited to see the continued success in helping customers get back in their vehicles.
Disclaimer
This article has been prepared by Allianz Australia Insurance Limited ABN 15 000 122 850 AFSL234708 ("Allianz"). In some cases, information has been provided to us by third parties and while that information is believed to be accurate and reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed in any way.
Any opinions expressed constitute our views at the time of issue and are subject to change. Neither Allianz, nor its employees or directors give any warranty of accuracy or accept responsibility for any loss or liability incurred by you in respect of any error, omission or misrepresentation in this article.
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