Head-mounted virtual reality and mental health: critical review of current research

Jerdan, Shaun W, Grindle, Mark, van Woerden, Hugo C and Kamel Boulos, Maged N 2018. Head-mounted virtual reality and mental health: critical review of current research. JMIR Serious Games 6 (3) , e14. 10.2196/games.9226

Preview

PDF - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution. Download (703kB) | Preview

Abstract

Background: eHealth interventions are becoming increasingly used in public health, with virtual reality (VR) being one of the most exciting recent developments. VR consists of a three-dimensional, computer-generated environment viewed through a head-mounted display. This medium has provided new possibilities to adapt problematic behaviors that affect mental health. VR is no longer unaffordable for individuals, and with mobile phone technology being able to track movements and project images through mobile head-mounted devices, VR is now a mobile tool that can be used at work, home, or on the move. Objective: In line with recent advances in technology, in this review, we aimed to critically assess the current state of research surrounding mental health. Methods: We compiled a table of 82 studies that made use of head-mounted devices in their interventions. Results: Our review demonstrated that VR is effective in provoking realistic reactions to feared stimuli, particularly for anxiety; moreover, it proved that the immersive nature of VR is an ideal fit for the management of pain. However, the lack of studies surrounding depression and stress highlight the literature gaps that still exist. Conclusions: Virtual environments that promote positive stimuli combined with health knowledge could prove to be a valuable tool for public health and mental health. The current state of research highlights the importance of the nature and content of VR interventions for improved mental health. While future research should look to incorporate more mobile forms of VR, a more rigorous reporting of VR and computer hardware and software may help us understand the relationship (if any) between increased specifications and the efficacy of treatment.

Item Type:	Article
Date Type:	Publication
Status:	Published
Schools:	Medicine
Publisher:	JMIR Publications
ISSN:	2291-9279
Date of First Compliant Deposit:	12 November 2018
Date of Acceptance:	3 April 2018
Last Modified:	06 Jul 2023 16:43
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/116645

Citation Data

Cited 76 times in Scopus. View in Scopus. Powered By Scopus® Data

Actions (repository staff only)

Edit Item