Research
- Find out more about
our ongoing research
- Join one of our studies and
help us with our research
Join our Virtual Reality (VR) Study to Combat Stress and Anxiety
STUDY NOW CLOSED
(but please email us if you are interested and we will try
to include you in a later study)
EarthScapeVR is running a study to assess the effectiveness of an online Virtual Reality (VR) programme for people who want to reduce anxiety and stress and boost their mood. Learn more about how you can be involved.
Please complete this contact form for more information. Alternatively, you can email us directly at
VRResearch@protonmail.com
Contact Us
What is being tested?
We are testing innovative Virtual Reality (VR) programmes designed to help reduce anxiety and stress, while boosting mood.
The 3 x VR sessions incorporate the Overview Effect, binaural beats, meditation and a music scape.
In addition to the VR sessions, you will have access to an online course featuring video and audio materials, which can be viewed on your phone, tablet, or computer.
Purpose of the study
Stress and anxiety are common challenges in our daily lives. EarthScape VR has developed innovative, nature-based VR programs designed to alleviate these issues. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of an EarthScape VR program in reducing stress and anxiety.
Who is running the study?
EarthscapeVR, in collaboration with the Eden project, researchers from the University of Vienna and the University of Liverpool, has received a grant from Innovate UK to conduct this exciting trial. This trial will evaluate a cutting-edge online Virtual Reality (VR) programme that combines Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Nature-Based Therapy.
Who can take part?
Adults aged 18-66 who experience anxiety, stress, or low mood are welcome to join (places are limited). Individuals with serious mental or physical health conditions are unfortunately not eligible to participate on this occasion, but we are working on expanding our provisions in the future. Additionally, participants must have a sufficient understanding of English to provide informed consent and fully engage with the course content.
What is the time commitment?
The 12-week online course includes one self-study session per week of around 45 minutes. Some participants will also be invited to attend 3 VR sessions at a regional venue.
Eligibility will be assessed before enrolment.
How can I take part?
Please complete the contact form above or email us directly on VRResearch@protonmail.com.
We will send you information about the study and answer any questions you have. Please note while we try to place everyone who applies on a study, places are limited and we cannot guarantee everyone will be able to take part.
What happens next?
Once we receive your expression of interest, we will send you the Participation Information Sheet for the group you have been randomly selected for, along with a consent form.
Participation is entirely voluntary. It’s up to you to decide whether to take part. If you decide to participate and qualify, you will receive the online link to start the study immediately, with no waiting time!
Feedback from our VR programmes
Participants report having had a profound shift in their awareness. These participants descriptions of the experience are similar to those described by astronauts.
Participants develop a new sense of awareness and a new planetary perspective. Research suggests that the VR may impact how people feel and behave.
Participants description of their experience include feelings of awe, feelings of being connected to nature and having an expanded personal sense of self.
Participants require a period of assimilation, then they are excited to share and compare their experience.
Other Independent and Ongoing Research:
List of Services
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University of Amsterdam and Free University of AmsterdamList Item 2
A longitudinal study investigating VR and changes in behaviour towards behaving more pro environmentally
p=150
Results under review, early results suggest that a shortened version of the overview effect virtual reality condition with voice over and music, scored significantly higher than all four other conditions in the donation task, suggesting that a shortened version of the VR experience may influence behaviour.
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Goldsmiths University, Humboldt University of Berlin, The University of AgderList Item 3
Can the VR Overview Effect lead to changes in connectedness to nature, to other people and to one-self.
p=60
Awaiting results
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University of StirlingList Item 1
Investigating changes in connectedness to nature
p=30
Results
Found a significant effect in the VR condition
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Manchester MetropolitanList Item 4
Investigating the VR pilot and Awe experience scale.
p=10
Results
Suggest that the experience elicits awe and increases nature connectedness
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Derby University
Investgating compassion of the VR group compared to the control group
p=40
Research tbc
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Deakin University
Investigating heritage based extended reality, details tbc.