Actively Recruiting
Bringing the Outdoors In: Virtual Nature Walks for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Patients
Led by University of Michigan · Updated on 2026-02-12
40
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
67 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor
A
Apple Inc.
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
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.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Bringing the Outdoors In: Virtual Nature Walks for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Patients
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Confirmed diagnosis of progressive Multiple Sclerosis (primary or secondary) by a neurologist or MS center
- PROMIS Depression T-scores greater than 55 at baseline
- Ability to provide informed consent and participate in VR sessions at home
- For some participants (Groups 1 and 2), currently receiving antidepressant or psychotherapy treatments (SSRIs, SNRIs, or psychotherapy) for depression management
You will not qualify if you...
- Severe cognitive impairments or visual deficits that interfere with VR use, including agoraphobia, claustrophobia, or motion sickness
- Current participation in other clinical trials targeting depression
- Severe psychiatric conditions requiring hospitalization, suicidal ideation, psychosis, or active substance and alcohol abuse (score greater than 1 on CAGE-AID)
- Presence of another neurological or autoimmune disease
- Need for vision correction beyond mild (+/- 1) unless using prescription contact lenses
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States, 48109
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
Z
Zee Petrie
CONTACT
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
CROSSOVER
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
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