Healium

Overview

Healium is a mental fitness platform developed by StoryUP, Inc., that uses virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and biofeedback to manage stress and anxiety without pharmaceuticals.¹²⁵ It integrates users' biometrics like heart rate and EEG brainwaves into immersive experiences, validated by peer-reviewed studies showing anxiety reduction and positivity increases in minutes.³⁶ The platform serves individuals, businesses, and healthcare providers worldwide, positioning it as a tool for quick mental wellness interventions.¹³

History

Healium was founded in 2016 by Sarah Hill, a former news journalist who experienced panic attacks from reporting on traumatic events, and Dr. Jeff Tarrant, a neurofeedback expert.¹⁶ Inspired by immersive media and neurofeedback, they created a drugless solution combining VR/AR with brainwave monitoring.¹ The company conducted multiple studies, resulting in seven peer-reviewed journal publications demonstrating efficacy in reducing moderate anxiety and boosting positivity in as little as four minutes.⁶ Today, it operates under StoryUP, Inc., providing tools used globally for stress management.⁵¹

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are software-based apps for VR/AR compatible with standard devices like phones, tablets, and headsets; no specific manufacturing details provided as focus is on digital experiences and portable kits.²³⁶

Notable Products

• Healium XR App - Clinically validated VR/AR app using biofeedback for anxiety reduction and positivity enhancement.
• Neurofeedback VR Experiences - Immersive stories integrated with EEG brainwave monitoring for real-time stress management.
• AR Mobile Experiences - Augmented reality sessions launched from iOS/Android apps overlaying calming content on real world.
• Healium Kits - Portable bundles combining VR hardware, sensors, and guided experiences for drugless calm.

Reputation

Healium is recognized by professionals for its peer-reviewed evidence base, with seven studies confirming efficacy in reducing anxiety and stress quickly, appealing to healthcare providers and businesses addressing employee burnout.³⁶ Enthusiasts value its engaging, science-backed alternative to traditional meditation, powered by biometrics for measurable results.²⁴ Limited criticisms noted, primarily around it not replacing medication or treating severe conditions, positioning it as a supplementary tool.⁶