Virtual Reality Relaxation for Mental Health Service Users with Complex Care Needs: a Pilot Study in Residential Care Homes and Supported Accommodation

This study aimed to investigate implementation of a single session of VR relaxation for service users in residential care homes and supported accommodation, who were supported by a South London community team. Participants could explore relaxing, natural environments in VR. Pre- and post-VR visual analogue scales  of mood, immersiveness, helpfulness, narrative feedback and clinician reflections were recorded. Participants (N = 20) had psychotic disorders and other serious mental health conditions. Post-VR, there were significant increases in relaxation (large effect), happiness and connectedness to natu re (both medium effects), and decreases in anxiety and sadness (both medium effects). Stress was low at baseline and there was no significant effect post-VR. Helpfulness and immersion scores were high (both >  8). Participants reported the intervention was very relaxing, exciting, uplifting and were enthusiastic about engaging in more VR relaxation and further psychological interventions, including therapy and other digital interventions. Participants reported finding a session facilitator helpful. Tec hnical issues were minor and resolved by the facilitator. Findings indicate scope to widen access to VR relaxation within complex care services. More facilitators could offer multiple sessions to larger, more diverse groups of service users. Future research with more robust methodologies is needed t o test effectiveness and longer-term impact.
Source: Journal of Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Mental Health - Category: Psychiatry Source Type: research