Virtual therapy scenarios can meaningfully complement outpatient psychotherapeutic treatment
In the study, we were able to demonstrate that a supportive, therapy-accompanying VR relaxation intervention is also feasible in an outpatient psychiatric setting. And not only that: Virtual Reality has a measurable positive effect on well-being and existing depression levels.
In the study, we were able to demonstrate that a supportive, therapy-accompanying VR relaxation intervention is also feasible in an outpatient psychiatric setting. And not only that: Virtual Reality has a measurable positive effect on well-being and existing depression levels.
Our five key findings from the study were:
- Almost all participants found using the VR headset at home to be rather or very easy and were very satisfied with the intervention.
- The values of depressive symptoms improved significantly from before to after the intervention.
- The physical and mental quality of life also improved significantly after the intervention compared to the baseline. This confirms previous research findings: Nature experiences in Virtual Reality promote relaxation, which enhances physical and mental well-being.
- The most popular VR videos among the participants were: a forest walk in South Tyrol, a sandy beach in Thailand, and a herd of alpacas.
- Participants with severe mental disorders also used virtual reality on their own initiative and motivation.
Participants with severe mental disorders also used virtual reality on their own initiative and motivation.
These results are cross-diagnostic and independent of sociodemographic factors: Virtual reality can therefore be used as a complementary tool for a wide range of patient groups.
Prof. Dr. Christine Rummel-Kluge, senior physician and head of the Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic at Leipzig University Hospital:
“Truly amazing how realistic virtual therapy scenarios can be and how effective they can be. Our study shows that a supportive, therapy-accompanying VR relaxation intervention is also feasible and effective in an outpatient psychiatric setting.
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