Virtual reality and immersive technologies to promote workplace wellbeing: a systematic review

Abstract

Background Work-related stress negatively impacts employee wellbeing. Stress-management interventions that reduce workplace stress can be challenging. Immersive technologies, such as virtual reality (VR), may provide an alternative. Aims This systematic review aimed to evaluate feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness of immersive technologies to promote workplace wellbeing (PROSPERO 268460). Methods Databases MEDLINE, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Embase were searched until 22nd July 2021. Studies were included if they tested a workforce or were designed for a workplace. Effective Public Health Practice Project quality assessment tool (EPHPP) was used for quality ratings. Results There were 17 studies (N = 1270), published 2011–2021. Over half were conducted in Europe. Eight studies were controlled trials. Most studies involved brief, single sessions of immersive VR and provided evidence of feasibility, acceptability, and effectiveness when measuring wellbeing-related variables such as stress, relaxation, and restoration. VR environments included relaxation tasks such as meditation or breathing exercises, and nature-based stimuli, such as forests, beaches, and water. Studies tested office workers, healthcare professionals, social workers, teachers, and military personnel. EPHPP ratings were “strong” (N = 1), “moderate” (N = 13), and “weak” (N = 3). Conclusions VR relaxation appears helpful for workplaces. However, limited longer-term data, controlled trials, and naturalistic studies mean conclusions must be drawn cautiously.