Could VR headsets help calm psychiatric inpatients?

NCT ID NCT06917456

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: South West London and St George's Mental Health NHS Trust Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a virtual reality (VR) app is acceptable and practical for use on psychiatric inpatient wards. Researchers worked with patients and staff to design and refine the app, then piloted it with 43 participants. The goal was to see if VR could be a useful tool for relaxation and symptom management in a hospital setting.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Virtual reality headset (Meta Quest or Pico)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could offer a new, drug-free way to help psychiatric inpatients relax and manage distress.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early feasibility study with only 43 participants, so results may not apply broadly. VR may not suit everyone and could cause discomfort or seizures in rare cases.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MENTAL HEALTH VIRTUAL REALITY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Springfield University Hospital, South West London & St. George's Mental Health NHS Trust

London, United Kingdom

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.