CompletedInterventional

A controlled trial of a virtual reality experience to support wellbeing in healthcare students

This study explores whether using virtual reality (VR) can help lower stress levels and improve overall well-being for university students. Researchers are comparing a special VR experience designed to be relaxing with the exact same experience viewed on a smartphone. Students participating in the study are divided into two groups and try their assigned experience each day for five days. Before and after this period, as well as before and after each daily session, their stress and well-being are measured. The aim is to understand if VR could be a useful tool for students dealing with anxiety. The study is run by St George's University of London and funded by the National Institute of Health and Care Research.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Sponsor

St George's, University of London

Enrolment target

120

Start

06 Nov 2023

Estimated completion

20 Nov 2023

Anxiety/stress

What is this study about?

Many university students today experience stress and anxiety, which can affect their well-being. This study aims to find a new and engaging way to help students manage these feelings. It focuses on a special relaxing experience, and the researchers want to see if using this experience through virtual reality (VR) glasses works better than simply watching it on a mobile phone.

To do this, students at St George's University of London are taking part. They are split into two groups by chance – like flipping a coin. One group uses the VR glasses for the relaxing experience, while the other group uses their mobile phones. Both groups do this for five days. The researchers look at how students' stress, anxiety, and overall feeling of well-being change during this time.

Understanding if VR can truly help reduce stress in students is important. If successful, this kind of technology could offer an accessible and enjoyable way for many more people, especially those in demanding academic environments, to improve their mental well-being.

Key takeaways

This study investigates if virtual reality (VR) can help lower stress in university students.
It compares a VR relaxation experience with the same experience on a phone.
Participation involves daily sessions for five days and filling out questionnaires.
Benefits include trying the app and receiving payment; risks are minor, like cybersickness.
Only St George's University of London students, aged 18+, are eligible.

Who may be eligible?

This study is designed for adult students from St George's University of London. To join, you need to be 18 years old or older and currently enrolled as a student at that university.

There are a few reasons why someone might not be able to join. If you have ever had seizures, or if you have a pacemaker, this study might not be safe for you. The researchers need to make sure everyone can take part safely, as virtual reality experiences can sometimes affect people with these conditions.

If you fit the age and university requirements and don't have these specific health conditions, you might be a good fit for this study. The study is open to both male and female students.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you currently a student at St George's University of London?
Have you *never* had seizures?
Do you *not* have a pacemaker?
Are you comfortable potentially experiencing mild motion sickness?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, you'll first be assigned by chance to one of two groups: either using a special virtual reality headset or using your own smartphone. For five days, you'll experience a short, relaxing session each day on your assigned device. Before and after this five-day period, and also before and after each daily session, you'll be asked to complete some short questionnaires about your well-being and stress levels. At the very end, you'll share what you liked and didn't like about the experience. The full participation period, from start to finish, is expected to be short, mainly focusing on those five active days and the initial and final assessments.

Potential risks and benefits

A benefit of joining this study is getting to try the relaxation experience, and you will also receive some payment for your time. There is a small risk of experiencing 'cybersickness', which is similar to motion sickness you might feel on a boat or in a car, but it usually passes quickly. Remember, taking part is completely voluntary, and you are free to leave the study at any time without giving a reason, and this won't affect your medical care or academic standing.

Locations (1)

St George's University of London
Approximate
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is 'virtual reality'?

Virtual reality (VR) uses special headsets to create a digital world that you can look at and often interact with, making you feel like you're actually there.

What is 'well-being'?

Well-being is about how you feel overall, including your happiness, comfort, health, and ability to cope with life's challenges.

Who is funding this research?

The study is funded by a respected organisation called the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

What is 'cybersickness'?

Cybersickness is a feeling of nausea, dizziness, or eye strain that some people can experience when using virtual reality, similar to motion sickness.

Is this study only for students?

Yes, this specific study is only looking for students currently enrolled at St George's University of London.

How to find out more

Aileen O'Brien

aobrien@sgul.ac.uk +44 (0)7961174521 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.