Work

Virtual reality relaxation for autistic adults on acute inpatient mental health wards: A pilot study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) has potential as a relaxation intervention on acute inpatient mental health wards. VR may have additional advantages for autistic individuals who can sometimes experience difficulties with visualisation, which is required in many traditional relaxation techniques. This study aimed to investigate feasibility and acceptability of VR relaxation for autistic adults on acute inpatient mental health wards. Autistic inpatients (N = 14) were recruited from acute mental health wards in South London. Clients experienced one session of nature-based VR relaxation using a VR headset. Visual analogue scales of psychological wellbeing and ability to imagine a relaxing scene were completed pre- and post-VR, and measures of helpfulness and immersion were completed post-VR. Qualitative feedback was collected regarding clients’ experiences of VR relaxation, and clinicians’ reflections on facilitating sessions. Post-VR, clients reported significant decreases in stress, anxiety, and difficulty imagining a relaxing scene, and significant increases in relaxation, happiness, and connectedness to nature (all large effects). Qualitative findings suggested that clients found VR relaxation enjoyable, relaxing, helpful, and immersive, and it distracted them from being on the ward. However, some clients declined the intervention due to sensory sensitivities. Clinicians’ experiences of delivering VR relaxation were generally positive, but they identified some challenges to delivery and recommendations for future implementation. Findings suggest VR relaxation is feasible and acceptable to implement as an intervention for autistic inpatients on acute mental health wards and may be a helpful way to manage stress and promote relaxation. Future research with larger samples and longer-term follow-ups is needed.

Source: Research in Autism

DOI: 10.1016/j.reia.2026.203007