Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Virtual Reality to Reduce Pre-procedure Anxiety Prior ECT

This study aims to discover if using virtual reality (VR) can help patients feel less anxious before undergoing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Many patients feel worried about ECT, often because they don't fully understand it. We are testing whether watching a VR video that shows what happens during an ECT session is better at reducing anxiety and increasing knowledge than simply talking to a psychiatrist. Participants will either watch the VR video or have a standard chat. We'll measure their anxiety levels, how much they know about ECT, and their heart rate and blood pressure before their treatment. This research could help healthcare providers offer better support and education to patients and their families.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Enrolment target

Start

27 Nov 2020

Estimated completion

01 Jun 2026

ECT Electroconvulsive Therapy Virtual Reality Anxiety Education Hemodynamics Depression Cognition Mental Health

What is this study about?

Many patients feel quite anxious before having electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), often because they're not sure what to expect. Think of it like going for a medical procedure you've heard about but don't fully understand – it's natural to feel a bit worried. This study wants to find a better way to help patients feel more prepared and less anxious.

We're looking at whether using a special virtual reality (VR) video can make a difference. This video would allow you to 'experience' an ECT session beforehand, helping you understand what will happen in a safe and immersive way. We want to see if this VR experience can reduce your worries and improve your understanding of ECT, compared to the usual way patients are prepared, which is through a discussion with a psychiatrist.

Ultimately, if VR education proves helpful, it could lead to more patients feeling comfortable and confident about their treatment. This could also help build stronger relationships between patients, their families, and the healthcare team by making sure everyone has access to clear and helpful information.

Key takeaways

Exploring if virtual reality (VR) can ease anxiety before ECT.
Compares VR education to traditional discussions with a psychiatrist.
Measures anxiety, knowledge, heart rate, and blood pressure.
Aims to improve patient understanding and reduce worries about ECT.
Participation involves either VR video or discussion, plus assessments.
Could lead to better patient support and education in the future.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you generally need to be at least 18 years old. It's for people who are having ECT for the first time, or who haven't had it in the past year, and who have been recommended for ECT by their psychiatrist.

You should be able to understand English and be able to watch videos and answer questions. The study also needs you to be scheduled for your ECT procedure within a few days of joining.

However, if you can't give your consent, have eyesight or hearing problems that would stop you from watching or listening to the video, or if you often get severe motion sickness, then this study might not be suitable for you.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Is this your first time having ECT, or have you not had it in the last year?
Have you been recommended for ECT by your psychiatrist?
Can you understand spoken and written English?
Can you watch videos and answer questions without difficulty?
Do you get severe motion sickness often?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you'll be randomly placed into one of two groups, like flipping a coin – you'll have a 50/50 chance of being in either group. One group will watch a virtual reality video that gives you a 360-degree look at an ECT session. The other group will have a standard chat with a psychiatrist, which is the usual way people are prepared.

Before and after this session (whether it's the video or the chat), you'll be asked to complete some short questionnaires. These will help us understand your anxiety levels and how much you know about ECT. Just before your actual ECT treatment, we'll also measure your blood pressure, heart rate, and ask about your anxiety again. You'll also complete some quick tests related to your thinking skills and mood. The total duration of your participation in the study assessments will be brief, focused around your pre-treatment session.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of joining this study is that you might feel less anxious and more informed about your ECT treatment, which could make the experience better for you. There are minimal risks involved in participating, mainly just the time it takes to watch the video or have the discussion and complete the questionnaires. Your decision to participate is completely voluntary, and you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Verified postcode
Toronto, Canada

Common questions

What is ECT?

ECT, or Electroconvulsive Therapy, is a medical treatment that involves a brief electrical stimulation of the brain while you are under general anaesthetic. It's used to treat severe mental health conditions, like depression, that haven't responded to other treatments.

What does 'virtual reality' mean in this study?

In this study, virtual reality means you'll wear a special headset that shows you a 360-degree video. It will make you feel like you're actually in the room and experiencing what happens during an ECT session, to help you understand it better.

Will I have to pay to be in this study?

No, there are no costs associated with taking part in this study. All aspects of your participation are covered.

How will my information be kept private?

All your personal information and responses will be kept strictly confidential. Your data will be anonymized where possible, meaning your name won't be linked to your answers, to protect your privacy.

Who is running this study?

This study is being conducted by researchers aiming to improve patient education and reduce anxiety before ECT. More specific details about the research team would be provided if you express interest in joining.