Anglia Ruskin researchers exploring virtual reality for Seasonal Affective Disorder
Volunteers needed for trial testing VR technology as a treatment for winter depression
Last updated 13th Jan 2026
Researchers at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) are investigating whether virtual reality (VR) technology could provide an effective treatment for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), often referred to as winter depression.
SAD is estimated to affect up to one in 10 people in the UK, showing symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, increased appetite, weight gain, and excessive sleepiness. It is traditionally treated with antidepressants, psychological therapy, or bright light therapy via light boxes.
To explore alternative methods, ARU psychologists and AI researchers, with funding from Innovate UK, are conducting a trial using VR technology developed by Aerial Icon and delivered through a platform designed by Reneural.
The study, led by Dr Débora Vasconcelos e Sá and Dr Jane Scott of ARU’s School of Psychology, Sport and Sensory Sciences, is looking for adult volunteers who self-identify or have been diagnosed with SAD and experience moderate to severe symptoms.
Participants must be 18 or older, live in the UK, have internet access, and be able to attend ARU’s Cambridge campus. Volunteers will be randomly assigned to either the virtual reality group or the light box group and use the respective device daily at home for 14 days. Researchers will monitor mood and symptoms using questionnaires before, during, and after the trial.
Dr Jane Scott from ARU highlighted the potential impact of SAD: "Research suggests it can affect as many as 10% of people, and one study found it may account for a staggering 9.6 million lost workdays every year in the UK."
She explained that while current treatments like light boxes are proven to help, they are not effective for everyone.
Dr Débora Vasconcelos e Sá added: "Virtual reality technology has been used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and stress, but its potential for treating SAD hasn’t been explored. That’s why we’re excited to launch this trial."
The project is a collaboration between ARU, Aerial Icon, Reneural, and Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust. Ekene Ukemenam, Founder and CEO of Aerial Icon, commented that if successful, the research findings could guide the development of scalable digital therapeutic tools for SAD.