An open-label feasibility study tested whether a virtual reality simulation designed to replicate aspects of the psychedelic experience could be used as a therapeutic tool. Participants reported that the VR experience produced subjective effects resembling those of psychedelics, including altered perception and a sense of oceanic boundlessness. The findings suggest that VR-based psychedelic replications are feasible and acceptable, and may offer a scalable, non-pharmacological approach for mental health interventions. The study did not assess clinical outcomes, but participants showed reduced negative affect after the session. The authors indicate that further controlled research is needed to determine therapeutic efficacy.
A 2-day virtual reality intervention called Psyrreal, designed to mimic the phenomenological components of psychedelic experiences, combined with psychological support, led to significant decreases in depressive symptoms at a 2-week follow-up in ten participants with mild-to-moderate depression. The intervention also appeared to promote insight and alterations in the sense of self in some people, based on thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. These preliminary results suggest potential for VR experiences in treating depressive symptoms and warrant further research.