VR headsets tested as anxiety relief for epilepsy patients

NCT ID NCT06028945

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ANXIETY DISORDERS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

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.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Toronto Western Hospital

    Toronto, Ontario, M5T 2S8, Canada