Twelve-Day Space Station Isolation Simulation: The Effect of Virtual Nature Therapy on Depression in an Isolated, Enclosed Environment

This study investigates the therapeutic effects of virtual reality (VR)-based nature therapy on mild depression in a simulated space station isolation environment. The confined and enclosed environment of a space station deprives individuals of contact with the natural environment, potentially exacerbating depressive symptoms. We designed an experiment combining traditional depression treatments with VR-based virtual nature therapy to explore a novel therapeutic approach. Thirty participants (15 males and 15 females) were randomly assigned to 2 groups: One receiving traditional treatment plus VR-based nature therapy, and the other receiving only traditional treatment. Depression symptoms were assessed at the baseline and after 12 days. The experimental group underwent 12 days of VR-based nature therapy, resulting in reduced depressive symptoms as measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule. However, there were no marked changes in the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology—Self-Report scale scores. Compared to the experimental group, the control group exhibited smaller improvements in depressive symptoms. These findings affirm the efficacy and applicability of VR-based nature therapy, offering insights for future research into habitat environments for deep-space exploration.