Assessment of Depression and Anxiety in Hemodialysis Patients Undergoing VR Therapy—Pilot Study

TL;DR

This pilot study found that using virtual reality during hemodialysis can reduce anxiety and depression while improving life satisfaction and self-efficacy in patients with kidney failure.

Contribution

The study is one of the first to explore the psychological benefits of VR therapy specifically for hemodialysis patients.

Findings

VR therapy significantly reduced anxiety and depression in hemodialysis patients.

Patients reported increased life satisfaction and self-efficacy after VR sessions.

VR therapy showed psychological benefits compared to a control group without VR.

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) are at a significant risk for depressive and anxiety disorders, including severe depression. The use of virtual reality (VR) during hemodialysis can significantly impact psychological well-being and thus overall quality of life. The aim of the study was to assess the effects of VR therapy undertaken by hemodialysis (HD) patients on depression, anxiety, perceived self-efficacy and life satisfaction. Methods: Hemodialysis (HD) patients were recruited from the Dialysis Centre at St. Luke’s Hospital in Bolesławiec. Group I (experimental EG) included 16 HD patients, and Group II (control CG) included 22 HD patients (no VR session). The EG used VR for one month (maximum 14 sessions); the CG was the same group of patients assessed over a one-month period prior to the intervention. VR therapy took place at the beginning of dialysis, three times a week for one month. A personal questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10), the General Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) and the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) were used. Results: In the group of patients undergoing VR therapy, a significant reduction in the level of anxiety, depression and stress was observed, as well as a significant increase in life satisfaction and self-efficacy levels compared to the control group. Conclusions: Undertaking VR therapy during dialysis for patients with ESRD is beneficial, improves mood, satisfaction with life, and perceived self-efficacy, and reduces anxiety, but multi-center studies are needed on a larger group of patients.

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