Hybrid Type 2 Implementation-Effectiveness Trial of a Third Wave Virtual Reality Treatment for Youth Depression/Anxiety

Launched by ORYGEN · Mar 19, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new virtual reality (VR) treatment designed to help young people aged 12 to 25 who are dealing with depression and anxiety. The VR program uses a therapeutic approach called Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to create fun and engaging experiences that teach practical skills for managing feelings of distress. The goal is to see how effective this VR treatment is in improving mental health and to understand how it can be used successfully in regular mental health care settings. Over 12 weeks, clinicians will provide this VR intervention to up to 75 young people who are already receiving treatment for their mental health issues.

To be eligible for this trial, young people must be between 12 and 25 years old, currently receiving treatment from a participating youth mental health service, and have a good understanding of English. They should be seeking help for depression and/or anxiety. Participants can expect to take part in the VR program for about 12 weeks, with assessments before starting, immediately after the program, and four weeks later to see how they are doing. It's important to note that individuals with certain severe visual or hearing conditions, or those at high risk for suicide, may not be able to participate.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• There are three populations recruited for this trial:
• • INCLUSION CRITERIA
• • Young people
• • 1. Aged between 12-25 years (inclusive)
• • 2. Current client of a participating youth mental health service
• • 3. Seeking or receiving treatment for depression and/or anxiety
• • 4. Sufficient command of the English language
• • Clinicians Employed at a participating youth mental health service and involved in the delivery of psychological treatment of young people presenting with depression and anxiety
• • Service staff Work within a participating youth mental health service in a leadership (team lead or service manager) or administrative role.
• EXCLUSION CRITERIA:
• • Young people
• • 1. Moderate or severe audio or visual condition precluding engagement with the VR equipment (assessed on a case-by-case basis)
• • 2. Counter indication based on clinical judgement e.g., active suicidal risk or intellectual disability.
• • Clinicians Unable to commit to delivering the MIND intervention (5 sessions over 10-12 weeks).
• • Service staff Nil