Multi-session virtual reality relaxation for mental health staff: a feasibility and acceptability study

Mental health staff may experience high levels of psychological stress, burnout, and poor wellbeing. This study explores the feasibility and acceptability of implementing a course of virtual reality (VR) relaxation sessions for mental health professionals, to improve their mental wellbeing. Mental health staff were recruited to 5-weeks of VR relaxation. Recruitment numbers, completion and attendance rates were collected, and satisfaction with each session was measured. Mental wellbeing parameters were assessed following a single session, and over the course of five sessions. 38 staff were recruited. Most participants were nurses and support workers ( n = 22). Participants completed a mean of 3.93 ± 1.51 sessions. Mean satisfaction across all sessions was 8.26/10 ± 1.64. From baseline to 5-weeks there were improvements in subjective wellbeing, perceived stress, perceived worry, burnout, and daytime sleep dysfunction. There were improvements in wellbeing following a single session of VR. It is feasible and acceptable to implement VR relaxation within workplace settings for healthcare professionals. Implementation considerations are indicated such as flexible timetabling and exploring self-help models of delivery to maximise attendance. The research supports the development of a large-scale trial of VR relaxation to determine its efficacy for staff wellbeing.