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 Counselling and the "Performance Edge" team within the School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy at The University of Newcastle.

 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 must be completed prior to 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
  

When does it run? 

Callghan (L326 at Auchmuty Library):

• Module 1: 10-11am Thursdays

• Subsequent Modules: 11-12pm Thursdays

NUspace (X321):

• Module 1: 9.30-10.30am Mondays

• Subsequent Modules: 10.30-11.30am Mondays

Sessions will run weeks 1-13 of Sem 1 and 2, 2024.

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 to 10 participants per session -- register to reserve your place in each session.

The first time you attend the VR sessions, you will need to attend a "First Timers" session in order to complete Module 1.

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 CANNOT 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