Support groups in the Metaverse for Ukrainian refugees
Official title: Support Groups in the Metaverse for Ukrainian Refugees: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Run by University of Bucharest · NCT06142032 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Bucharest Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Bucharest) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 20, 2023 |
| Main results expected | April 2025 |
| Study ends | April 2025 |
| Registry record updated | December 9, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06142032 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are Ukrainian refugees aged 18 and older who are seeking mental health support.
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
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
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.