Virtual reality could ease fear of shock therapy

NCT ID NCT04291196

First seen Nov 20, 2025 · Last updated Jun 17, 2026 · Updated 25 times

Summary

This study tests whether watching a virtual reality (VR) video of an electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) session can reduce anxiety and improve knowledge about the procedure. About 64 adults about to have ECT for the first time will be randomly assigned to either a VR education session or a standard talk with a psychiatrist. Researchers will measure anxiety, heart rate, blood pressure, and understanding of ECT before and after the session.

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Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

    Toronto, Ontario, M4N 3M5, Canada

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anxiety anxiety disorder cognitive disorder Depression depressive disorder Psychological Well-Being

As listed by the trial registrant

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