Virtual Reality for Mental Health
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how virtual reality (VR) experiences of different neighborhood scenes affect mental and emotional responses. Participants will use VR to view scenes of their neighborhood, both in its usual state and with changes such as more or less litter or better-kept buildings. The goal is to understand how these visual cues might influence feelings and mental health. Individuals who have lived at the same address for most of the week and are open to having their neighborhood photographed may be eligible. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance community well-being.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to check with the trial organizers for more details.
What prior data suggests that this virtual reality method is safe for assessing psychosocial responses?
Research shows that virtual reality (VR) is generally safe and well-tolerated for mental health uses. Studies have found that people using VR for mental health usually experience few, if any, negative side effects. If side effects occur, they are typically mild, such as brief dizziness or eye strain, and they resolve quickly.
While VR has been helpful for some mental health issues, the evidence isn't strong for all conditions. This indicates potential for VR, but more research is needed to fully understand its effects. However, current data suggests that using VR to view different street scenes is likely safe for most people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about using virtual reality (VR) for mental health because it offers an innovative way to address environmental factors that impact mental well-being. Unlike traditional therapies that might involve medication or talk therapy, VR allows participants to immerse themselves in a realistic, controlled environment where they can experience different streetscapes. This approach can potentially help individuals understand and manage their responses to various environmental stimuli, which is not typically addressed by current mental health treatments. By comparing different environmental conditions through VR, researchers hope to uncover new insights into how our surroundings influence mental health, potentially leading to more personalized and effective interventions.
What evidence suggests that virtual reality viewing is effective for assessing psychosocial response in mental health?
Research shows that virtual reality (VR) can be a helpful tool for improving mental health. Studies have found that VR reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. It also aids in thinking and interacting with others, enhancing social skills and mental engagement. Although questions remain about its overall effectiveness, VR has successfully enhanced well-being in various groups, such as young adults and hospital patients. In this trial, participants will experience different VR scenarios involving neighborhood streetscapes, potentially improving reactions to various neighborhood settings.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Jesse Plascak, PhD, MPH
Principal Investigator
Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals with conditions like cancer or mental illness, and those with SHOX Deficiency Disorder. Participants should be able to experience virtual reality without adverse effects. Specific inclusion and exclusion criteria are not listed but would typically involve age, health status, and other relevant factors.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants view virtual reality representations of their streetscape in different conditions to assess psychosocial responses
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Virtual Reality Viewing
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor