Examining the Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Stress Management

Abstract

Virtual Reality (VR) has emerged as a promising tool in healthcare management, with recent studies exploring its effectiveness in addressing various psychological and physiological disorders. Stress is prevalent in modern society, necessitating effective strategies for its management. While sports and extended reality (XR) gaming have shown promising effects on mental health, this study aims to investigate the effectiveness of VR in reducing stress by comparing conventional and VR-based relaxation techniques using HRV parameters and EEG responses. A total of 40 participants (28 males, 12 females) with a mean age of 25 ± 3.21 years participated in the study. Baseline recordings were obtained, followed by a stress phase induced by a timed IQ quiz. Participants were then randomly assigned to either VR-based relaxation or conventional relaxation techniques. Both relaxation methods significantly improved heart rate variability (HRV) and decreased sympathetic dominance, indicating enhanced adaptability to stress and activation of the parasympathetic nervous system (PNS).However, VR-based relaxation resulted in a more pronounced decrease in heart rate and a significant reduction in the LF/HF ratio compared to conventional relaxation, suggesting a deeper state ofxv relaxation. Furthermore, VR-based relaxation led to a significant increase in the alpha-to-beta ratio, indicating a calmer mental state compared to non-VR relaxation. Notable changes were also recorded in Alpha Power in the frontal channels and Beta Power across all channels, suggesting greater effectiveness in inducing PNS activation and recovery.