Design and Development of a Virtual Reality based System to Improve the Mental Well being of an Individual

Abstract

The growing number of mental health disorders like anxiety and depression together with stress-related conditions call for new technology-based therapeutic solutions. This thesis explores the creation of a mobile virtual reality system which provides mental wellness benefits through its multi-sensory interactive and immersive platform for individuals. The proposed intervention uses virtual environments with diet along with physical exercise and color therapy to provide a complete method for enhancing mental health. newlineThe research began with a broad examination of existing literature and bibliometric analysis to determine missing elements in current virtual reality applications for mental wellness. The evaluation of current solutions occurred through assessments of their therapeutic value together with their technical specifications and user engagement capabilities. Research involved comparing built-in applications from different nations to determine their effectiveness along with their cultural and clinical relevance. The established foundation allowed researchers to create specific goals that directed the system design process. newlineThe mobile VR application received its development through Unity 3D game engine implementation alongside C# programming language usage. The system features guided meditation alongside peaceful natural environments and emoji-based mood tracking and breathing exercises. An experimental study assessed the system through pre-test and post-intervention tests on participants who lacked VR technology experience. Researchers employed three assessment tools during data collection: the Pre-Test and Post-Test Questionnaire combined with the System Usability Scale (SUS) and the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework which measured Perceived Usefulness (PU) alongside Ease of Use (EOU) and Task Technology Fit (TTF), Trust (T) and Intention to Use (IU). newline