VR Mobile Solutions For Chronic Stress Reduction in Young Adults

Stud Health Technol Inform. 2014:199:88-93.

Abstract

Chronic stress in young adults has become a growing problem within recent decades and many are unable to find cost-effective and accessible treatment for psychological stress in their daily lives. We analyze the market of using a mobile application, Positive Technology, as a solution. Eleven participants, aged between 18 and 24, participated in the exercise. Self-reported stress reduction was measured via an online marketing survey, while physiological measurements were monitored via peripheral devices. Secondary goals assessed the app's ease-of-use, accessibility, and cost. Results indicate that participants enjoyed the availability of the mobile solution and found the app to be fun and easy to learn. Stress levels were reduced in 73% of the participants, with higher effects in females and in participants aged 18-24. We conclude that the mobile platform is an effective means of delivering psychological stress reduction, and could provide an accessible, cost-effective solution.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Chronic Disease / prevention & control*
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mobile Applications*
  • Patient Education as Topic / methods*
  • Self Care / methods*
  • Stress, Psychological / prevention & control*
  • Telemedicine / methods*
  • Virtual Reality*
  • Young Adult