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

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.