Efficacy of the virtual reality-based stress management program on stress-related variables in people with mood disorders: the feasibility study.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of a VR-based stress management program on people with mood disorders. A quasi-experimental study was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Singapore, and a convenience sample of 22 was recruited. The program comprised three daily 1-hour sessions incorporating psychoeducation and VR-based relaxation practice. Participants who completed the program had significantly lowered subjective stress (t=6.91, p<0.001), depression (t=5.62, p<0.001), and anxiety (t=5.54, p<0.001); and increased skin temperature (F=17.71, p<0.001), perceived relaxation (F=26.20, p<0.001) and knowledge (F=13.77, p<0.001). Participants' feedback on the program was positive. Findings from this study contribute to improving clinical practice and serve as preliminary data to conduct more rigorous research in the future.

Efficacy of psychoeducation and relaxation interventions on stress-related variables in people with mental disorders: a literature review.

This paper aimed to critically review and summarize empirical evidence concerning the efficacy of psychoeducation or relaxation-based stress management interventions on stress-related variables in people with mental disorders. Electronic databases were used during the literature search. Thirteen articles that fulfilled the preset eligible criteria were included in the review. Findings indicated that psychoeducation and relaxation-based interventions mitigated stress and depression; and enhanced relaxation intensity and knowledge on stress management. However, mixed results were obtained on anxiety. In addition, interventions using virtual reality technology revealed positive effects on depression, relaxation intensity and anxiety. Limitations and recommendations for future research are discussed.