Overview
The primary purpose of this study is to test the safety and feasibility of virtual reality (VR) technology in the use of behavioral activation (BA) as a treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD). The secondary purpose of this study is to examine whether any evidence of clinical efficacy exists for VR delivered BA.
Description
This is a treatment development trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to BA in VR, BA in real-life, or a waitlist control group. The former two groups will follow a BA protocol developed for primary care settings over a four-week treatment period. This study is taking place over Zoom, due to COVID-19.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Patient must meet DSM V criteria for MDD
- Patient must be at least 18 years of age
- Patient must be English speaking
Exclusion Criteria:
- Substance Use Disorders in past year
- Any psychosis or bipolar I disorder
- Any seizure in the last 6 months or untreated epilepsy
- Current nonsuicidal self-injury or parasuicidal behavior
- Current suicidal urges and intent