Performance Edge is a cutting edge Virtual Reality training platform, designed to give students practical skills to cope with stress and challenging thoughts and emotions. 

The program teaches evidence-based skills that can be applied in your personal life and relationships, in academic settings such as giving presentations or exams, or when facing stressful situations on placements. 

This service is provided by the Counselling Service at The University of Newcastle. Sessions are faciliated by a student Counsellor or Wellbeing Advisor.

 What does it involve? 

• Sessions take up to 60 minutes

• This will include a brief introduction, 25-40 minutes wearing a VR headset, and a short discussion at the end of the session.
  

 The program includes six modules: 

1. Thoughts, Emotions and Behaviours (This module should be completed before any other modules)

2. Controlled breathing

3. Progressive muscle relaxation

4. Grounding using your senses

5. Responding effectively to thoughts

6. Responding effectively to emotions 

Students can complete as many modules as they choose. To receive the full benefit, we recommend completing all six modules.

Who is this for? 

• Any university student or staff member who wants to learn more about managing challenging events

• The activity requires a basic level of English reading

• It would not be suitable for someone who experiences motion sickness or cyber sickness to a signficant degree, or who has a strong fear of a confined environment tht may be caused by wearing the virtual reality headset.

When does it run? 

In 2025, weekly sessions will commence from Wed 12th March 2025 at Callaghan.

Weekly session are held on Wednesdays 12-1pm at US103 which is in the basement of the Shortland Building, Callaghan Campus (or other times as per the booking form).

To find US103, go to the pharmacy/chemist in Shortland Building, and enter the doorway underneath the stairs.

Are there any risks?

• There is a low risk of developing mild cybersickness symptoms (symptoms mimic motion sickness: a heavy head (not quite a headache), eyestrain, and mild nausea). The effects occur in about 5% of the population (you may be more susceptible if you are prone to severe motion sickness). Cybersickness symptoms are not long-lasting and pass shortly after the headset is removed.

• Some modules contain scenarios designed to evoke strong emotions, and involve witnessing swearing and verbal aggression which could be triggering. This exericse can be skipped - please speak to the facilitator for advice if concerned.
  

What are the benefits?

• The training has been shown to increase cognitive and physiological relaxation, reduce recovery time after stressful events, improved focus and attention ( reference).
  

• Receive a certificate of completion when you complete all modules.

Spaces are limited -- register to reserve your place in each session.

There is a low risk of developing mild cybersickness symptoms (symptoms mimic motion sickness: a heavy head (not quite a headache), eyestrain, and mild nausea). The effects occur in about 5% of the population (you may be more susceptible if you are prone to severe motion sickness). Cybersickness symptoms are not long-lasting and pass shortly after the headset is removed.

People with known health conditions in any of the following areas should not participate:

• Upper body mobility issues

• Phobias or fears of a confined environment that may be caused by virtual reality headsets, such as claustrophobia.

• Experienced motion sickness or cybersickness to a significant degree