Subjective and Objective Evaluation of the Benefits of Multisensory Virtual Nature Immersion for Patients with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder

Multisensory virtual nature immersion has been shown to assist with mental health management. In this paper, we look at the benefits of two multisensory immersion modalities for patients diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The modalities include: (1) a portable solution that integrates scent diffusion within the head-mounted display (HMD), and (2) a pod-based solution, in which a multisensory pod provides olfactory and haptic feedback (i.e., wind and vibrations) alongside audio-visual information via the HMD. We assess the two methods subjectively, via numerous questionnaires, and objectively, via measures computed from electroencephalography signals. The pod-based intervention resulted in greater improvements in PTSD symptoms and in sustained attention, with improvements in several objective measures of user experience, including engagement, valence, arousal, and sense of immersion/presence.