Support groups in the Metaverse for Ukrainian refugees
Support Groups in the Metaverse for Ukrainian Refugees: A Randomized Clinical Trial
This study is testing if support groups held in the Metaverse can help improve the mental health of Ukrainian refugees compared to in-person groups and a waitlist.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Bucharest Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bucharest) |
| Trial ID | NCT06142032 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of support groups conducted in the Metaverse for promoting mental health and well-being among Ukrainian refugees. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a Metaverse support group, an in-person support group, or a waitlist control group. Each participant will attend five weekly sessions led by licensed psychologists, with assessments conducted at various intervals to measure outcomes. The study seeks to provide insights into the potential benefits of virtual support in addressing mental health needs.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Ukrainian refugees aged 18 and older who are seeking mental health support.
Not a fit: Patients who are formally diagnosed with a mental disorder or PTSD, or those currently receiving other therapeutic interventions, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance mental health support for Ukrainian refugees, making it more accessible and effective.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual environments for support groups is emerging, this specific approach in the Metaverse for Ukrainian refugees is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Part of Ukrainian refugee communities Exclusion Criteria: * Younger than 18. * Not part of the Ukrainian refugee community. * Formally diagnosed with a mental disorder. * PTSD * Currently participating in any ongoing therapeutic intervention or treatment for mental health.
Where this trial is running
Bucharest
- University of Bucharest — Bucharest, Romania (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Cezar Giosan, PhD — University of Bucharest
- Study coordinator: Cezar Giosan, PhD
- Email: giosan@outlook.com
- Phone: +40730908050
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.