Could virtual reality help beat winter depression?
Anglia Ruskin experts need volunteers to participate in groundbreaking SAD trial
The type of virtual reality headset being used in ARU's SAD trial
Experts at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) are investigating whether virtual reality technology could help combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), or winter depression – and they’re inviting volunteers to take part.
SAD is a form of depression that is thought to affect as many as one in 10 people in the UK, significantly impacting wellbeing and productivity during the darker winter months.
Symptoms often include low mood, fatigue, increased appetite, especially for carbohydrates and sweets, leading to weight gain, and excessive sleepiness.
SAD is commonly treated with antidepressants, psychological therapy or bright light treatment, delivered through a light box.
However, ARU psychologists and AI researchers, supported by Innovate UK funding, are exploring whether an immersive, computer-generated environment developed by Aerial Icon, delivered through a virtual reality headset via a platform designed by Reneural, could offer an effective alternative.
The study, led by Dr Débora Vasconcelos e Sá and Dr Jane Scott of ARU’s School of Psychology, Sport and Sensory Sciences, is recruiting adult volunteers who either self-identify or have been diagnosed with SAD, and experience moderate to severe symptoms.
“It’s normal to feel a bit down when the weather’s gloomy, which is one reason why SAD often goes under the radar.
“Research suggests it can affect as many as 10% of people and one study found it may account for a staggering 9.6 million lost workdays every year in the UK. Although light boxes are proven to help with SAD, they’re not effective for everyone.”
Dr Jane Scott, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at ARU
“Virtual reality technology has been used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and stress, but its potential for treating SAD hasn’t been explored. That’s why we’re excited to launch this trial.”
Dr Débora Vasconcelos e Sá, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Psychology at ARUParticipants must be 18 or older, resident in the UK, have internet access and be able to attend ARU’s Cambridge campus. People will be randomly assigned to either the virtual reality group or the light box group and will use the device at home daily for 14 days. The researchers will track symptoms and mood through questionnaires before, during and after the trial.
The project is being run in collaboration with Aerial Icon, Reneural and Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust.
“If successful, the findings could inform the development of scalable digital therapeutic tools for SAD.”
Ekene Ukemenam, Founder and CEO of Aerial IconTo sign up or to find out more, including full eligibility, please visit tinyurl.com/IUKVRSAD or email the researchers at [email protected]