VR headsets tested as anxiety relief for epilepsy patients

NCT ID NCT06028945

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: University Health Network, Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tested whether virtual reality (VR) exposure therapy could reduce anxiety in people with epilepsy who worry about their seizures. Fourteen participants were split into two groups: one received VR therapy using 360-degree videos of social or public settings, and the other did not. Researchers measured anxiety, depression, and quality of life before, after, and one month later to see if the VR approach helped.

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 exposure therapy (VR-ET) using 360-degree videos delivered through a head-mounted display
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug way to help people with epilepsy manage anxiety related to their seizures.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 14 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The therapy may not reduce anxiety for all users.

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.

anxiety disorder epilepsy visual epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ANXIETY DISORDERS EPILEPSY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Toronto Western Hospital

Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada

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