Using virtual reality to help hemodialysis patients with depression
Virtual Reality: A New Technological Modality to Deliver Psychotherapyto Hemodialysis Patients with Comorbid Depression
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · NIH-10676316
This study is testing a new virtual reality program that helps hemodialysis patients relax and feel better emotionally through guided meditation, aiming to improve their mental health and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10676316 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a virtual reality platform that immerses hemodialysis patients in a calming environment to deliver psychotherapy focused on improving their emotional well-being. The study will involve a randomized controlled trial with 84 participants, where patients will engage in guided meditation sessions using a head-mounted display. By providing an innovative and accessible method of therapy, the research seeks to address the high rates of depression among hemodialysis patients, which can negatively impact their health outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are undergoing hemodialysis and experiencing symptoms of depression.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing hemodialysis or do not have comorbid depression may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the mental health and overall quality of life for hemodialysis patients suffering from depression.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in psychotherapy is an emerging field, preliminary studies have shown promising results in similar applications, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN — CHAMPAIGN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LARA-CINISOMO, SANDRALUZ — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN
- Study coordinator: LARA-CINISOMO, SANDRALUZ
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.