Research Studies

The National Mental Health Innovation Center (NMHIC) will conduct a trial focused on the utilization and efficacy of the TRIPP VR meditation application as a tool designed to promote wellbeing. The study will evaluate the TRIPP VR meditation application as a novel, non-invasive method to improve wellbeing in a healthy student population. The goal of this project is to better understand the impact of VR mindfulness as an ongoing wellness support for college students. The first aim of the study is to understand factors related to feasibility, acceptability, and overall engagement with TRIPP VR for students. Application usage (e.g., frequency, type of program, duration) and satisfaction will be assessed. The second aim of the study is to investigate the efficacy of TRIPP VR as a wellness support in this population. Perceived stress, mood, mindful awareness, and wellbeing will be assessed across multiple time points. The third aim of the study is to determine whether there are associations between mystical experiences and sense awe related to VR use and the wellness outcomes. We hypothesize that regular use of TRIPP VR, mystical experiences, and awe will be associated with improved wellbeing, mindful awareness, and in-application mood ratings, as well as lower stress.

Participants will be provided with Oculus Quest or Oculus Quest 2 VR headsets for the duration of the evaluation period (8-weeks) and will be asked to complete at least one 8-10 minute TRIPP VR mindfulness session 3-5 days per week via the VR headset or their mobile phone. Throughout the course of the study, participants will be asked to complete a brief (i.e., four item) standardized stress measure once per week. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, midline, and endline. All assessments will be completed through Qualtrics and will be sent to participants via an email link. An end-of-study interview or focus group will be completed virtually or in-person with all study participants to assess feasibility, acceptability, and factors related to TRIPP VR that facilitated wellbeing.

Duration of Participation: 8-weeks