The key project objective was to improve the well-being of students suffering from acute, episodic, and chronic stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms by boosting mental health and social inclusion, enhancing their chances to function normally in university society, and preventing the recurrence of the disorder. The main output of this project is a set of chill spots deployed at partner universities. The main part of the chill spot is a VR system equipped with stress and anxiety reduction applications. Scenarios developed for students use visualization, guided breathing exercises, and bilateral stimulation. VR technology allows users to stay in a chillout environment affecting their senses of hearing and sight. There are two types of scenarios: static and dynamic. The static scenarios guide users through breathing, visualization, and relaxation techniques with a narrator. The dynamic scenarios allow users to actively relieve stress. The VR tool aims to put users in a state of mental calm, helping them achieve a sense of peace and tranquility, and promoting overall mental well-being.
The European Commission’s Education & Training program emphasizes inclusive higher education, ensuring all students succeed. Special focus is needed for those with mental health issues. Chronic stress leads to mental and physical health problems, including depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular disorders. The WHO calls stress the “Health Epidemic of the 21st Century.” People with long-term depression and anxiety are among the most excluded in Europe. The Covid-19 pandemic’s impact on education is significant. Online learning challenges led to absenteeism, lower results, and increased stress. A Boston University survey found half of nearly 33,000 students screened positive for depression or anxiety. A TUL survey confirmed this: 20% feel stressed most of the time, and 10% have been diagnosed with mental health conditions. Students with special needs faced increased dropout rates during e-learning. Returning to in-person education was stressful for many. Higher education institutions had to create stress-free conditions for students’ return, ensuring mental support and inclusion. Therefore, we have addressed this problem, and our solution is a VR tool designed to reduce stress.