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Metaverse-Based Psychiatric Consultation for Youths With Mental Health Conditions: Qualitative Descriptive
Mio Ishii1, Junichi Fujita1,2, Nao Toyohara1,2
1Department of Psychiatry, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama, 236-0004, Japan, 81 45-787-2800.
JMIR XR and Spatial Computing
|May 28, 2026
Summary
Metaverse psychiatric consultations are feasible and acceptable for youth mental health care, offering a stigma-free, accessible alternative to traditional therapy. This innovative approach enhances psychological safety and rapport for young individuals with mental health concerns.
Area of Science:
- Digital Health
- Psychiatry
- Mental Health Technology
Background:
- Youth mental health is a global priority with increasing rates of anxiety and depression.
- Young people face barriers to accessing mental health services, including stigma and workforce shortages.
- Digital technologies, like the metaverse, offer potential for innovative, scalable mental health solutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the feasibility and user experience of metaverse-based psychiatric consultations for young people.
- To assess the acceptability and usability of virtual reality environments for mental health treatment.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative descriptive feasibility study was conducted with 26 participants aged 16-25.
- Participants engaged in one-on-one metaverse consultations with psychiatrists using avatars.
- Semistructured interviews were used to explore user perceptions of feasibility and usability.
Main Results:
- Metaverse consultations were feasible and well-tolerated, with no adverse psychological events.
- Key benefits included perceived psychological safety, enhanced spatial presence, and increased autonomy.
- Avatar-mediated interaction reduced barriers for individuals with anxiety, sensory sensitivities, or reluctance to attend in-person visits.
Conclusions:
- Metaverse-based psychiatric consultations are a feasible and acceptable approach for youth mental health.
- Avatar use and virtual environments can mitigate stigma and interpersonal anxiety for specific youth subgroups.
- These consultations can serve as a low-threshold entry point in hybrid care models, bridging help-seeking and treatment.
