Effect of virtual reality (VR) technology on anxiety control and acrophobia reduction: A randomized controlled trial in Iran

In recent years, utilizing technologies, such as virtual reality in mental healthcare and treatment, has developed significantly. This study aimed to investigate the effect of using virtual reality (VR) technology on controlling anxiety and reducing fear of heights (acrophobia). This study was a randomized controlled trial conducted in Birjand, Iran, in 2020. 120 participants were recruited and randomly allocated into two groups: intervention and control. The intervention group underwent a single simulated exposure to height using a virtual reality headset. The Beck Anxiety Inventory, alongside a researcher-developed questionnaire were administered as pre-tests to assess acrophobia. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 23, with significance level at 0.05. The intervention group showed significantly reduced anxiety and acrophobia scores immediately and 1 month after exposure (P < 0.05). Post-exposure, both anxiety and acrophobia scores were significantly lower in the intervention group compared to the control group (P = 0.03 and P < 0.001, respectively), with no significant differences between groups before exposure or 1 month later (P > 0.05). The study concluded that VR technology is an effective tool for reducing anxiety and acrophobia. This approach appears to hold significant promise as a therapeutic modality for psychiatrists treating patients with acrophobia.