Pilot Study of Virtual Reality Therapy for Students With Anxiety

Pilot Study of Virtual Reality Therapy for Students With Anxiety

The purpose of this study is to assess changes in self-reported anxiety over the course of six virtual reality (VR) sessions and to assess changes in academic self-efficacy, as well as examine the feasibility and acceptability of a relatively short and time intensive VR intervention (i.e.,six sessions over the course of three weeks) for reducing anxiety symptoms in college students.

Inclusion Criteria:

• enrolled in The University of Texas Health Science Center School of Public Health San Antonio regional campus
• competent in English
• total score of at least 3 on the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-2)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently receiving psychological treatment for anxiety symptoms, or has received treatment in the last year.
• Report photosensitive epilepsy.
• Report stereoscopic vision or balance problems