Abstract
The mental health and well-being of young adults is greatly impacted due to lifestyle and peer influences. The prevalence of poor mental health, especially anxiety and depression, among college students, is related to multiple social and academic stressors. Research indicates that in-game experiences and activities in the online platform improve coping and provide forms of cognitive distractions in highly stressed individuals. Online gaming experiences and activities contribute towards reducing offline stress and improves stress coping. The aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of virtual reality enabled experiences on the stress experience of college students, especially relating to state anxiety. The study was carried out at the College of Medicine and Health Sciences, National University of Science and Technology, Oman. Around 150 students participated in this study. Baseline data from participants was collected using the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory. Students were then exposed to an intervention that included interactive virtual reality experiences that induced relaxation. State anxiety was reassessed following the intervention. Feedback relating to participants’ experience was also obtained. Results reveal a positive impact of virtual reality enabled experiences on participants’ experience of state anxiety that is closely related to academic coping and performance. Participants reported positive feedback relating to the virtual reality wellbeing experience. It is essential for on-campus wellbeing services to incorporate virtual reality enabled interventions that will positively enhance student mental health and wellbeing.
Author Information
Miriam Simon, National University of Science and Technology, Oman
Amal Al-Ghailani, National University of Science and Technology, Oman
Mazoon Al-Attar, National University of Science and Technology, Oman
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