Smartphone-based Virtual Reality Exposure and Standard Relaxation Training for Anxiety on an Inpatient Psychiatric Unit

Comparing a Smartphone-based Virtual Reality Exposure With Standard Relaxation Training for Anxiety on an Inpatient Psychiatric Unit

The purpose of this study is to compare a smartphone-based virtual reality exposure with standard relaxation training for anxiety and associated symptoms (including pain) on an inpatient psychiatric unit, and whether patients find it usable and beneficial.

The study is open only to inpatients on a specific Mayo Clinic Rochester psychiatric hospital unit, the Mood Disorders Unit. Two different techniques for reducing anxiety will be tried. The first time patients report anxiety, they will be asked to listen to a 15 minute audio CD guiding them through relaxation strategies. The second time patients are anxious, they will be given a cardboard VR goggle set and will view 15 minutes of unguided VR. Before and after each session, they will fill out a short survey of anxiety and related symptoms (including pain ratings) and their reaction to each technique. They will be asked to try each technique at least once during your hospital stay.

Inclusion Criteria:

- Hospitalized on inpatient Mayo Clinic Mood Disorders psychiatric unit (Generose 3W).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Inability to understand English.
• Patients with primary substance use disorders, primary psychotic disorders, major neurocognitive disorders and active self-harm behaviors and seizure disorders