Virtual reality environments for stress reduction and management: a scoping review

Abstract

Virtual reality, a cutting-edge innovation in the realm of digital experiences, though more frequently employed for entertainment and education, can also serve as a tool for immersing users in therapeutic settings that promote relaxation and mindfulness. An increasing number of research attempts investigate its usability and impact on stress evaluation, management and reduction. This scoping review aims to depict the current role of virtual reality in stress reduction and identify common methods and practice, technology patterns as well as gaps. Results depict the emerging research interest in the domain of VR-based stress reduction systems. The developed systems included in this review were basically addressed to the general public (59%) for daily life stress reduction utilizing a commercial VR headset often combined with supportive sensors. Guided imagery emerged as the most implemented method, but it is also noteworthy that almost all studies implicitly used this method. According to the analysis, most studies performed evaluation of the proposed VR system including both subjective and objective measurements to provide evidence on its efficiency and its actual impact on stress levels. Finally, validation methodologies attempt to point out the potential of VR technology in the direction of providing an efficient solution for the alleviation of stress burdens. Even though numerous studies report the usefulness and efficiency of VR technology regarding stress reduction, several challenges still need to be addressed, mainly because of the difficult definition, detection and evaluation of stress. An approach integrating the existing knowledge regarding signals that can act as biomarkers of stress and qualitative measurements could open new pathways toward the development of more impactful VR-based stress reduction systems.