A proposed interaction design model for virtual reality (VR) mindfulness meditation uses imagery-based transformation and positive feedback to help users quickly soothe negative emotions. Building on traditional mindfulness meditation, the model specifies three steps: an interaction guidance process, an interaction experience context, and an interaction feedback mechanism. Two scenarios were built based on these steps. Experimental results suggest the design can effectively alleviate anxiety and provide emotional relief. The transformation model is offered as a reference for VR mindfulness meditation systems and as a new idea for non-pharmacological interventions in psychotherapy.
In patients with treatment-resistant depression, a single 1-hour inhalation of nitrous oxide improved depressive symptoms more than a placebo, as measured by the 17-Hamilton Depression Rating Scale. The treatment altered brain function, shown by changes in event-related potential components (N1, P1, N2, P2) and increased functional connectivity networks. These brain changes correlated with symptom reduction, suggesting nitrous oxide works by modifying brain function.
Among 16,220 hospital workers in Wuhan, China, surveyed during the COVID-19 pandemic, 13.3% reported suicidal ideation in the past month. Exposure to COVID-19-related traumatic events was significantly associated with insomnia severity, nightmare frequency, and suicidal ideation. After controlling for potential confounders, nightmares—but not insomnia, depression, or anxiety—were independent risk factors for suicidal ideation. Pathway analyses indicated that the relationship between traumatic event exposure and suicidal ideation was fully mediated by nightmares, with a proportion mediated of 66.4%. The authors suggest that nightmare intervention might be considered a component of suicide prevention strategies.