Virtual Reality Treatment for Trauma Related to COVID-19 Infection

Development of Virtual Reality Treatment Technology to Treat Trauma Related to COVID-19 Infection

This clinical trial aims to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR)-based exposure therapy for trauma symptoms related to COVID-19 infection. The intervention targets healthcare workers and individuals from the general population who experienced pandemic-related psychological distress. The study assesses psychological and physiological outcomes, including PTSD, anxiety, depression, HRV, and EEG biomarkers.

The project involves a two-phase clinical study. In Phase 1, VR exposure therapy content is developed based on trauma management theory and tailored to specific participant groups (e.g., COVID-19 survivors, healthcare workers). In Phase 2, randomized controlled trials will compare VR treatment with standard therapy approaches (CBT, supportive therapy) across two populations:

Healthcare workers involved in the care of COVID-19 patients Members of the general public affected by social disaster-related psychological distress

Participants will undergo 5 weekly sessions of VR exposure therapy. Pre- and post-intervention assessments will include standardized psychiatric scales (e.g., PHQ-9, PCL-5), HRV, and EEG measurements. The trial aims to validate the efficacy and safety of customized VR therapy protocols and identify relevant biomarkers for treatment prediction.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age 18-64, healthy population who survived from COVID-19 (COVID survivors) or Healthcare Workers with PCL-5 ≥10, GAD-7/PHQ-9 ≥10

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy, neurological disorders, severe medical conditions