Cognitive warfare, a new strategy in both the military and social arenas, aims to alter public perceptions, beliefs, and behaviors by leveraging information and media. This type of warfare, with the aim of undermining public trust in institutions and creating confusion in society, can have profound and adverse effects on individuals’ mental and cognitive health. Cognitive disorders, which include problems in the processes of thinking, remembering, learning, and processing information, can be caused by psychological pressures, stress, and exposure to incorrect information [1]. In the context of cognitive warfare, the main goal of the enemy is to change the way people think and behave in society. This type of warfare can lead to psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Soldiers exposed to this type of warfare may experience information confusion, which has a direct impact on their decision-making [2]. For this reason, there is a need for tools to manage the adverse effects of cognitive warfare on the mental health of soldiers.

New technologies, especially digital simulations and Virtual Reality (VR), have been proposed as practical tools in reducing the adverse effects of war on soldiers' mental health. VR can help improve cognitive functions by providing interactive and engaging environments that stimulate the brain. For example, by using digital simulations, soldiers can practice in real conditions without any risks to them. This can help them cope better with stressful situations and maintain their cognitive abilities [3]. Research has shown that the use of digital simulations can have a positive impact on cognitive functions. For example, one study found that soldiers who underwent VR-based rehabilitation programs improved their abilities in the areas of attention and memory [4]. These types of therapies could serve as tools to mitigate the adverse effects of cognitive warfare.

Additionally, the use of VR can help reduce anxiety and stress associated with war situations. Simulated environments designed to create calm can increase feelings of security and help individuals better cope with the psychological challenges of war [5]. However, the use of VR technologies also has its challenges. The high cost of the equipment required for VR may limit its availability. Users may also need training to utilize the technology effectively. Side effects such as nausea or discomfort may also affect some people when using VR environments.

Ultimately, this article explores the impact of technology and digital simulations on mitigating cognitive impairments in the realm of cognitive warfare. The main goal of this article is to analyze how new technologies can be used in the mental rehabilitation of soldiers and to examine the challenges and opportunities in this field. Given the importance of the topic, the results of this research can help develop effective strategies for managing cognitive impairments caused by cognitive warfare and enhance the quality of life of soldiers after their return home.

This research examines the role of cyberspace in cognitive warfare operations. The [8] authors emphasize that cyberspace is recognized as an essential platform for conducting cognitive warfare operations.

This study examines the impact of the enemy’s cognitive warfare on Generation Z [9], [10] and discusses the challenges and solutions ahead. The authors emphasize that cognitive warfare has targeted the adolescent generation as a tool to achieve the expansionist goals of arrogant powers. They identify four main components (changing thoughts, changing beliefs, changing behavior, and changing structures) and present 12 challenges of cognitive warfare in the country.

This article analyzes the enemy's cognitive warfare objectives and emphasizes that [11] cognitive warfare is a tool for achieving development goals without military conflict.

The authors identify 24 environmental factors that affect cognitive warfare and propose resilience strategies, including increasing public awareness and media literacy.

This article examines the various dimensions of cognitive warfare, emphasizing that it involves [12] targeting the cognitive faculties of the general public and elites within the target society by altering norms, values, beliefs, attitudes, and behaviors. The authors highlight various techniques, including propaganda, rumor-mongering, and the utilization of social media, in this type of warfare.

This article examines the role of the media in cognitive warfare. The authors argue that the media [13] act as key tools in managing public opinion and can influence changes in attitudes and behaviors.

The article also examines how the media is used to create confusion and undermine public trust.

This article examines the United States' hybrid and cognitive warfare against Iran. The authors state that this type of warfare includes psychological, informational, cyber, propaganda, and media warfare, which aims to undermine the Islamic Republic of Iran.

This article examines the challenges of cognitive warfare in the digital age. The authors state that [14] with the advancement of information technology, new challenges have arisen in the field of information management and countering cognitive warfare.

This article examines the various dimensions of cognitive warfare, emphasizing that a [15] comprehensive understanding of social psychology and communication theories is essential for effectively combating it.

This article explores new strategies for addressing the challenges posed by cognitive warfare. The [16] author emphasizes the importance of public education, strengthening media literacy, and building social support networks.

This research was conducted based on a review of reputable scientific articles, books, and documents available in scientific databases such as Google Scholar, JSTOR, and Scopus. The sources collected include research articles, theses, and reports related to the topic of cognitive warfare.

This section provides a more comprehensive and detailed review of research findings on the impact of technology and digital simulations on reducing cognitive impairments in the field of cognitive warfare. The findings are based on studies and analyses conducted in the field of cognitive warfare, cognitive impairments, and the application of new technologies, including VR.

The use of VR not only helps reduce cognitive impairments but also has positive effects on the quality of life of individuals:

Reducing anxiety: simulated environments designed to create calmness increase feelings of security and help individuals better cope with the psychological challenges caused by war.

Increased social interaction: this technology allows for greater interaction with others and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Improved cognitive functions: research has shown that frequent use of VR , enhances problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity in users.

Increased motivation: the use of new technologies typically increases patients' motivation to participate in the treatment process, as interactive environments are more engaging.

Improving quality of life: thise technology not only have a positive impact on aspects of treatment but also improve the overall quality of life of patients. For example, people who used VR to practice social skills were able to better cope with social situations and gain more confidence.

Despite the many benefits of new technologies, some challenges need to be considered:

I. High cost: the equipment required for VR may be expensive and access to them may be limited.

II. Training need: users may need training to be able to utilize this technology.

III. Side effects: some people may experience discomfort or nausea when using VR environments.

IV. Limited access: some patients may have limited access to new technologies, especially in remote areas or developing countries.

V. Social acceptance: some individuals may be resistant to using new technologies or may be concerned about possible side effects.

VI. Mismatch: some programs or systems may not be able to meet the specific needs of patients; therefore, they require further customization.

This paper shows that cognitive warfare has profound adverse effects on cognitive impairments and can lead to problems such as memory impairment, decreased attention, and anxiety in individuals. These effects are especially evident in soldiers who are exposed to psychological stress caused by war and misinformation. Given these challenges, the use of new technologies, such as VR, has been considered an effective solution in cognitive rehabilitation. This technology can not only help reduce the symptoms of cognitive impairments but also improve the quality of life and increase the motivation of patients.

However, to fully exploit the potential of this technology, further research and development of therapeutic approaches based on it are needed. Additionally, challenges such as high costs, training requirements, and limited access in certain regions need to be addressed to make these tools more widely adopted in the treatment process. Ultimately, integrating new technologies with traditional therapeutic approaches can help create more comprehensive solutions for the management of war-related cognitive disorders.

This research received no specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

All data are included in the text.

The authors declare no conflict of interest.