RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07392879

Bringing the Outdoors In: Virtual Nature Walks for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Patients

Sponsor

University of Michigan

Enrollment

40 participants

Start Date

Dec 15, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Depression Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Summary

This trial explores the use of immersive virtual reality (VR) nature-based experiences as a supplementary treatment for depression in individuals with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). This study will evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of at-home VR deployment using the Apple Vision Pro, an advanced device that offers enhanced resolution, immersion, and usability compared to earlier VR systems. The study hypotheses include: * The integration of VR nature-based experiences with standard care will be feasible, acceptable, and will result in greater reductions in depressive symptoms compared to standard care or VR-only interventions. * The integration of VR nature-based experiences with standard care will result in greater reductions in stress and anxiety, better sleep, less insomnia, and improved fatigue compared to standard care alone or VR-only interventions.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This trial is testing whether virtual reality (VR) nature walks can reduce depression in people with progressive multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants will use a VR headset at home to experience calming nature environments, and the study will examine whether this improves mood and mental wellbeing alongside or instead of standard antidepressant treatment. **You may be eligible if...** - You have a confirmed diagnosis of progressive MS (primary or secondary) from a neurologist or MS center - You have elevated depression symptoms (PROMIS Depression T-score above 55) - You can provide informed consent and participate in VR sessions at home - Some groups require you to currently be on antidepressants or psychotherapy for depression **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have severe cognitive impairment or vision problems that prevent VR use - You experience conditions like agoraphobia, claustrophobia, or significant motion sickness - You are currently enrolled in another clinical trial Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

Interested in this trial?

Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.

Interventions

DEVICEVirtual Reality

Participant will have 8 weeks of immersive VR nature-based experiences. Participants are expected to use the VR headset three times per week. Headsets will contain a prototype application (app) developed by Explore POV. This app will include approximately one hour of footage showcasing 15-25 different nature experiences, that will shuffle every time participants access it. Participants will have the option to choose between 5, 10, or 15 minutes, sessions while answering weekly surveys regarding their experiences.

OTHERStandard care

Participants that are in the randomized groups will continue on antidepressants or psychotherapy during the study per their standard care. Participants in the non-randomized group don't receive any treatment for their depression and will continue not to receive anything for this during the study.